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T4 (4th Thoracic Vertebra)

Last Updated: Jun 24, 2015

The T4 vertebra is the fourth uppermost of the twelve (12) thoracic vertebrae at the center of the spinal column, located within the torso and supporting the rib cage. As with the other T2-9 thoracic vertebrae, the heads of the ribs fit into an articular space made by demi-facets on the upper and lower exterior of the ventral body or centrum and by facets on the transverse processes. The centrum ofmycontentbreak the T4 thoracic vertebra is larger than that of the T3 but likewise heart-shaped, with flat surfaces above and below for articulation with the subjacent T5 and superjacent T3 vertebrae, with cartilaginous intervertebral discs in between to cushion and support the joints. Increasingly large pedicles add additional strength and support to the spine, with a slightly smaller and circular vertebral foramen in the center of the vertebral arch protecting the nerves of the spinal cord. The spinous process is long and points downward significantly.