Where the twelfth thoracic vertebra (t12) sits in the skeleton
The twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) is the 12th 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 has one facet for the head of the twelfth rib, and its lower articular processes face sideways like a lumbar vertebra to lock with the first lumbar vertebra. The aorta usually passes behind the diaphragm through the aortic opening at this level, and the coeliac trunk usually branches from the abdominal aorta here.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of the skeleton is the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) in?
The twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) 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 twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12)?
Above the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) is the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11), and below it is the first lumbar vertebra (L1).
At what level does the aorta pass the diaphragm?
Usually at the twelfth thoracic vertebra, through the aortic opening at the back of the diaphragm.
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)
- Tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)
- Eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11)
- First lumbar vertebra (L1)
- Second lumbar vertebra (L2)
- Third lumbar vertebra (L3)
- Fourth lumbar vertebra (L4)
- Fifth lumbar vertebra (L5)
- Sacrum
Joints of the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12)
Compare with similar bones
Bone counts
By region
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