The Probert Encyclopaedia of Medicine

THORACIC VERTEBRAE

The thoracic vertebrae are the middle twelve in the vertebral column. Most of the thoracic vertebrae feature costal (relating to the ribs) facets on the body and transverse processes of the vertebra, no foramina in the transverse processes (as the cervical vertebra have), a spinous process which points back and down, and a round vertebral foramen. The body of each thoracic vertebra in the spinal column bears the weight of the vertebrae above it (and the skull), while the arch serves to create a canal-like area along the spine to house and protect the spinal cord.
Research Thoracic Vertebrae