• THORACIC VERTEBRAE


    📌The thoracic bone region primarily refers to the thoracic cage (rib cage), which protects the organs in the chest, such as the heart and lungs.


    1. Thoracic Vertebrae (T1–T12)

    • There are 12 thoracic vertebrae in the spine.

    • Each vertebra has facets for rib articulation.

    • They form the posterior part of the thoracic cage.


    2. Ribs (1–12)

    • True ribs (1–7): Attach directly to the sternum via costal cartilage.

    • False ribs (8–10): Attach indirectly to the sternum via cartilage of the rib above.

    • Floating ribs (11–12): Do not attach to the sternum at all.


    3. Sternum

    • Manubrium: Upper portion that articulates with the clavicles and first two ribs.

    • Body: Central, long part where ribs 2–7 attach.

    • Xiphoid process: Small, cartilaginous lower part that ossifies in adulthood.


    4. Costal Cartilage

    • Hyaline cartilage connecting ribs to the sternum.

    • Provides flexibility to the rib cage.


    📌Functions of the Thoracic Bones:

    • Protection: Shields vital organs like the heart and lungs.

    • Support: Provides attachment for muscles of respiration, the upper limb, and the back.

    • Respiration: Allows expansion and contraction of the thorax during breathing    


    🔺BLOOD SUPPLY

    📌The blood supply from the lateral thoracic wall is derived from branches of the axillary artery 

     ðŸ“ŒThe blood supply of the posterior thoracic wall is derived from dorsal branches of the posterior intercostal arteries and the dorsal scapular artery.


    🔺VENOUSE SUPPLY 

    📌 primarily occurs through the intercostal veins, which drain into the azygos 

    📌 hemiazygos venous systems, ultimately leading to the superior vena cava. 


    🔺NERVE INTERVENTIONS

    📌12 pairs of spinal nerves that originate from the thoracic segments of the spinal cord.

    📌 These nerves mainly supply the thoracic bone and associated structure 


    🔺Clinical Significance

    Understanding the applied anatomy of the thoracic boneis essential for diagnosing and treating various conditions, such as:

    📌Thoracic spine fractures

    📌Scoliosis

    📌 Kyphosis

    📌Herniated discs