Introduction[edit | edit source] Show
This guide gives a general overview of the anatomy of the thoracic spine. It also includes some facts regarding pathophysiology in this region. The sagittal plane alignment of the Thoracic spine is on average 35% (normal range is 20° to 50°).[1] Important Structures The important parts of the thoracic spine include:
Bones (vertebrae and ribs)[edit | edit source]The human spine is made up of 24 spinal bones, called vertebrae. Vertebrae are stacked on top of one another to create the spinal column. The spinal column is the body’s main upright support.
Ribs and sternum ( see link) The ribs are the bony framework of the thoracic cavity.
According to their attachment to the sternum, the ribs are classified into 3 groups: true, false, and floating ribs[4]. Joints[edit | edit source]There are 3 types of joints present in the thoracic spine: Between vertebral bodies – adjacent vertebral bodies are joined by intervertebral discs, made of fibrocartilage. This is a type of cartilaginous joint, known as a symphysis. Between vertebral arches ie facet joints – formed by the articulation of superior and inferior articular processes from adjacent vertebrae. It is a synovial type joint. In the thoracic spine facet joints angled at:
Costovertebral joints, unique to the thoracic spine - consists of the head of the rib articulating with:
Within this joint, the intra-articular ligament of head of rib attaches the rib head to the intervertebral disc. Only slight gliding movements can occur at these joints, due to the close articulation of their components.[5] Structure and Function[edit | edit source]The anatomy of the Thoracic spine is related directly to its function. The facets and demifacets devoted to rib articulation demonstrate the main function of the thoracic spine.
Nerves[edit | edit source]The hollow tube formed by the bony rings on the back of the spinal column surrounds the spinal cord. The bones of the spinal column protect the spinal cord.
The 12 pairs of thoracic nerves are derived from dorsal and ventral roots of their corresponding segments. These nerves
Ligaments[edit | edit source]Several long ligaments connect on the front and back sections of the vertebrae.
Thick ligaments also connect the ribs to the transverse processes of the thoracic spine. Intervertebral Disc[edit | edit source]The intervertebral disc (IVD) is important in the normal functioning of the spine.
Muscles[edit | edit source]The muscles of the thoracic spine are arranged in layers.
NB The Thoracolumbar Fascia (important to thoracic musculature) is a large area of connective tissue - roughly diamond-shaped - which comprises the thoracic and lumbar parts of the deep fascia enclosing the intrinsic back muscles. 4. Muscles also connect from one rib to the next. eg Muscles of Respiration Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
[edit | edit source]Now you know all about the anatomy, go on to look at this page Thoracic Examination References[edit | edit source]
Which ribs are demonstrated on an AP oblique projection?The AP oblique rib projection is performed to best demonstrate the axillary ribs.
Which are the best ribs demonstrated with the patient in the LPO position?Right axillary portions are best demonstrated in the RPO position. The LPO position demonstrates the left axillary ribs.
Where should the patient's hands be positioned for an upright lateral sternum?Before midterm. Which two projections must be taken for an injury to the right anterior upper ribs?SJC Zerbe Procedures Semester 2 Unit 3. |