Intermediate Thoracic Vertebrae Quiz

Q1. In a typical thoracic vertebra, how does the head of a rib usually articulate with adjacent vertebral bodies?

• Only with the spinous process
• With demifacets on two adjacent vertebral bodies
• Only with the vertebral body below
• Only with the transverse process

Q2. Which thoracic vertebra usually has a complete facet for the first rib and an inferior demifacet for the second rib?

• T12
• T6
• T1
• T10

Q3. How are the superior articular facets of typical thoracic vertebrae generally oriented?

• Inferiorly and anteriorly
• Directly superiorly
• Anteriorly and medially only
• Posteriorly and slightly laterally

Q4. How are the inferior articular facets of typical thoracic vertebrae generally oriented?

• Posteriorly and laterally
• Directly inferiorly
• Anteriorly and slightly medially
• Superiorly and posteriorly

Q5. Which movement is relatively favored by the orientation of typical thoracic zygapophysial joints?

• No movement
• Extensive extension only
• Extensive flexion only
• Axial rotation

Q6. What limits flexion and extension in the thoracic region compared with the cervical and lumbar regions?

• Rib cage, overlapping spinous processes, and facet orientation
• Absence of intervertebral discs
• Presence of transverse foramina
• Fusion of all thoracic vertebrae

Q7. Which thoracic vertebrae lack transverse costal facets for rib tubercles?

• T8 and T9
• T5 and T6
• T1 and T2
• T11 and T12

Q8. Why are T11 and T12 considered atypical thoracic vertebrae?

• They have no rib articulations
• They contain transverse foramina
• They have complete body facets and lack transverse costal facets
• They are fused to the sacrum

Q9. Which thoracic vertebra shows a transition toward lumbar-type inferior articular facets?

• T7
• T5
• T12
• T2

Q10. Why are thoracic pedicles important in defining the intervertebral foramina?

• They attach directly to the sternum
• They contain transverse foramina for vertebral arteries
• Their vertebral notches help form intervertebral foramina
• They form costal cartilage