9 Questions
How many thoracic vertebrae are there in the human body?
12
What is unique about the articulation of thoracic vertebrae with ribs?
They articulate with the head of the corresponding rib
Which part of the thoracic vertebra articulates with the head of the corresponding rib?
The superior costal facet
What is the function of the inferior costal facet on the body of the thoracic vertebra?
It articulates with the subjacent rib
Which rib does the inferior costal facet articulate with?
The subjacent rib
What is the main characteristic of the thoracic vertebrae?
They articulate with ribs
How do the thoracic vertebrae articulate with the ribs?
Through a combination of costal facets and ribs
What is the purpose of the thoracic vertebrae articulating with ribs?
To provide support for the thoracic cage
How many costal facets are present on each thoracic vertebra?
Two
Study Notes
Joints Between Vertebrae
- The joint between adjacent vertebrae is formed by a layer of hyaline cartilage on each vertebral body and an intervertebral disc, which lies between the layers.
Joints Between Vertebral Arches (Zygapophysial Joints)
- The synovial joints between superior and inferior articular processes on adjacent vertebrae are the zygapophysial joints.
- Each joint has a thin articular capsule attached to the margins of the articular facets.
Third to Sixth Cervical Vertebrae
- These vertebrae are typical cervical vertebrae and have short bifid spinous processes.
- They have transverse processes with anterior and posterior tubercles and transverse foramina for the vertebral vessels.
- They provide an attachment site for the ligamentum nuchae, supraspinous ligaments, and numerous back muscles.
Thoracic Vertebrae
- There are twelve thoracic vertebrae.
- They are characterized by their articulation with ribs.
- The superior costal facet on the body articulates with the head of the corresponding rib.
- The inferior facet articulates with the subjacent rib (just below).
Learn about the structure and formation of joints between vertebrae, including the role of hyaline cartilage and intervertebral discs.
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