Thoracic vertebrae Flashcards
1
Q
How many thoracic vertebrae are there?
A
12.
2
Q
What do the last 2 thoracic vertebrae not have?
A
Transverse processes.
3
Q
Why do the last 2 thoracic vertebrae not have transverse processes?
A
Because the ribs are floating.
4
Q
What is the costotransverse joint?
A
Where the neck and tubercle of a given rib are united with a transverse process.
5
Q
Where is the costatranverse joint located?
A
On the first 10 thoracic vertebrae.
6
Q
What is the costovertebral joint?
A
Where to head of a rib is united with facets or demi facets on the vertebral body.
7
Q
Where is the costovertebral joint located?
A
On all 12 thoracic vertebrae.
8
Q
Why do the thoracic vertebrae have long spinous processes?
A
- For leverage.
- The spinous process will be at right angles with the pull of muscles + tendons.
- This allows limited rotation within the thoracic vertebrae.
9
Q
What movements can occur at the thoracic vertebrae?
A
- Rotation.
- However, ribs prevent extreme rotation of thoracic vertebrae.
