Bone
Typical thoracic vertebra
Rib-bearing vertebra, best illustrated in the middle thoracic region
High-yield
At typical mid-thoracic levels, a rib head contacts adjacent vertebral bodies and its tubercle meets a transverse process. Facet patterns change toward the ends of the region; T11 and T12 lack transverse costal facets.
Overview
Thoracic vertebrae connect the spine with the ribs. A representative middle-thoracic vertebra has a roughly heart-shaped body, rib-bearing facets and a long spinous process directed backward and downward.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Irregular bone of the thoracic spine
- Key landmarks
- At typical levels: superior and inferior costal demifacets, transverse costal facets, heart-like body and long downward-sloping spinous process; end-level patterns vary
- Articulations
- Neighboring vertebrae through discs and facet joints; ribs through costovertebral joints and, at T1–T10, costotransverse joints
Clinical correlation
Osteoporosis can allow a vertebral body to compress into a wedge, often near the thoracolumbar region. Several such fractures can reduce height and increase forward spinal curvature; osteoporosis is not the only cause of vertebral compression.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the typical thoracic vertebra?
The typical thoracic vertebra is an irregular bone of the thoracic spine bone.
What does the typical thoracic vertebra articulate with?
Neighboring vertebrae through discs and facet joints; ribs through costovertebral joints and, at T1–T10, costotransverse joints.
What are the key landmarks of the typical thoracic vertebra?
At typical levels: superior and inferior costal demifacets, transverse costal facets, heart-like body and long downward-sloping spinous process; end-level patterns vary.