Which of these statements about intercostal nerves is true?
A) They are part of a nerve plexus.
B) They innervate only the intercostal muscles.
C) The ventral rami of T₁-T₁₂ spinal nerves lie just inferior to each rib.
D) They consist of 12 pairs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ventral rami of T₁-T₁₂ spinal nerves lie just inferior to each rib, and these rami form the intercostal nerves.

Answer: A and B are incorrect, as intercostal nerves are not part of a plexus but rather originate from the spinal cord, and they do not only innervate intercostal muscles but also other muscles in the thorax and abdomen.

Answer: D is also incorrect, as there are actually 11 pairs of intercostal nerves, as the T₁₁ spinal nerve does not give rise to an intercostal nerve but rather contributes to the formation of the subcostal nerve.

Which of These Statements About Intercostal Nerves Is True