Thoracic Vertebrae Features — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModerateAnatomyThoracic Vertebrae FeaturesFRCA Primary

Which bony feature most reliably identifies an isolated typical thoracic vertebra and distinguishes it from cervical and lumbar vertebrae?

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Correct answer: E — Costal facets for rib articulation

The correct answer is E. Costal facets are the defining feature of thoracic vertebrae because they provide articulation with the ribs. In a typical thoracic vertebra, costal demifacets on the body articulate with the rib head, while a facet on each transverse process articulates with the rib tubercle. The exact arrangement varies at atypical levels, particularly T1 and T10–T12, but costal facets remain characteristic of the thoracic region. Bifid spinous processes and transverse foramina are cervical features. A large kidney-shaped body is characteristic of lumbar vertebrae. A triangular vertebral foramen is found in cervical and lumbar regions; the thoracic vertebral foramen is relatively small and approximately circular.

Reference: Waxenbaum JA, Reddy V, Margetis K. Anatomy, Back, Thoracic Vertebrae. StatPearls, updated 31 January 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29083651/