Where the tenth thoracic vertebra (t10) sits in the skeleton
The tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) is the 10th of the twelve thoracic vertebrae. It articulates with the ribs on each side to support the back of the rib cage, and the spinal cord runs through it. Each side of its body usually has a single facet, for the head of the tenth rib alone. The oesophagus usually passes through the oesophageal opening of the diaphragm at this level.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of the skeleton is the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) in?
The tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) is one of the bones of the vertebral column. Seven cervical, twelve thoracic and five lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum are stacked to support the trunk and enclose the spinal cord.
How many vertebrae are there?
The spine has 24 separate vertebrae. From the top there are seven cervical (neck), twelve thoracic (upper back) and five lumbar (lower back) vertebrae, followed by the sacrum and the coccyx.
Which bones are above and below the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)?
Above the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) is the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9), and below it is the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11).
At what level does the oesophagus pass through the diaphragm?
Usually at the tenth thoracic vertebra, through the oesophageal opening.
Other bones of the vertebral column
- Atlas (C1)
- Axis (C2)
- Third cervical vertebra (C3)
- Fourth cervical vertebra (C4)
- Fifth cervical vertebra (C5)
- Sixth cervical vertebra (C6)
- Seventh cervical vertebra (C7)
- First thoracic vertebra (T1)
- Second thoracic vertebra (T2)
- Third thoracic vertebra (T3)
- Fourth thoracic vertebra (T4)
- Fifth thoracic vertebra (T5)
- Sixth thoracic vertebra (T6)
- Seventh thoracic vertebra (T7)
- Eighth thoracic vertebra (T8)
- Ninth thoracic vertebra (T9)
- Eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11)
- Twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12)
- First lumbar vertebra (L1)
- Second lumbar vertebra (L2)
- Third lumbar vertebra (L3)
- Fourth lumbar vertebra (L4)
- Fifth lumbar vertebra (L5)
- Sacrum
Joints of the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)
Compare with similar bones
Bone counts
By region
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