The transversus thoracis muscles originate from the posterior aspect of the xiphoid process, the inferior part of the body of the sternum, and the adjacent costal cartilages of the lower true ribs. They pass superiorly and laterally to insert into the lower borders of the costal cartilages of ribs III to VI. They most likely pull these latter elements inferiorly.
The transversus thoracis muscles lie deep to the internal thoracic vessels and secure these vessels to the wall.