rib
Thoracic Vertebrae The bodies of the thoracic vertebrae are larger than those of cervical vertebrae Figure 7.26 . The characteristic feature for a typical midthoracic vertebra is the spinous process, which is long and has a pronounced downward angle that causes it to overlap the next inferior vertebra. The superior articular processes of thoracic vertebrae face anteriorly and the inferior processes face posteriorly. These orientations are important determinants for the type and range of movements available to the thoracic region of the vertebral column. Thoracic vertebrae have several additional articulation sites, each of which is called a facet, where a rib is attached. Most thoracic vertebrae have two facets located on the lateral sides of the body, each of which is called a costal facet costal = rib . These are for articulation with the head end of a rib. An additional facet is located on the transverse process for articulation with the tubercle of a rib.