3D CONTENT
3D OSTEOLOGY
3D THORAX

THORACIC VERTEBRAE ANATOMY

Thoracic skeleton anatomy 360-degree interactive viewer showing twelve thoracic vertebrae with rib articulations and costal facets

Thoracic Skeleton - Thoracic Vertebrae Overview, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS

  • The thoracic spine comprises twelve vertebrae that increase in size from top to bottom
  • Uniquely designed for rib articulation
  • Heart-shaped vertebral bodies of near-equal width and depth
  • Spinous processes angle downward
  • Rib attachment is facilitated by specialized costal facets

COSTAL FACETS

Thoracic vertebra 360-degree viewer showing superior and inferior costal facets on vertebral body for rib head articulation

Thoracic Vertebra - Superior and Inferior Costal Facets, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

Superior Costal Facet

  • Located on the side of the vertebra near the base of the pedicle
  • Articulates with the head of the rib, forming a sturdy connection

Inferior Costal Facet

  • Positioned lower on the vertebra, just above the inferior notch
  • Forms an oval surface for articulation with the lower part of the rib's head

TRANSVERSE COSTAL FACET

Thoracic vertebra 360-degree viewer showing transverse costal facet on transverse process for rib tubercle articulation

Thoracic Vertebra - Transverse Costal Facet, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

  • Found on the transverse process (wing-like structure of the vertebra)
  • Accommodates the tubercle of the rib for articulation

FIRST THORACIC VERTEBRA (T1)

  • Distinctive features that set it apart from other thoracic vertebrae:
    • Full facet on each side for the first rib
    • Smaller demi-facet for the upper part of the second rib

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.

⋮⋮ Thoracic Vertebrae Quiz
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