Ribs and Vertebrae

First part (proximal portion) of the sternum.

The large solid portion of the vertebrae. This is an anterior structure.

Immediately inferior to the body. This is the "pointy" part of the sternum.

The depression at the most proximal portion of the sternum. In an intact body, you can feel this notch located between sternal ends of the clavicle.

First seven vertrebrae. Develps an anterior curvature. Labeled C1 to C7. Supports the weight of the head. First two vertebrae have special names.

Vertebra 1

Vertebra 2

The next 12 vertebrae. Develops a posterior curvature. Labeled T1 to T12. Supports the ribs. There are 12 pairs of ribs regardless of the sex of the individual.

Exaggerated thoracic curve giving a "humpback" appearance.

This part projects posteriorly.

These processes extend laterally from the vertebral foramen.

The curved area between the spinous process and the transverse process.

The area between the body and the transverse process.

An anterior, vertical projection on the axis vertebra. Only C2 has this structure.

Foramen lateral to the pedicle area. ONly cervical vertebrae have transverse foramen. Therefore, only cervical vertebrae have three holes. All other vertebrae have just one hole. The vertebral artery passes through these foramen.

Ribs 1 through 7. The cartilage of rib 1 attaches to the manubrium. The cartilage of rib 2 attaches to the manubrium and the body. The cartilage of ribs 3 through 7 attach to the body and sometimes to a small portion of the xiphoid process.

Ribs 8 through 10. The cartilage of rib 8 connects to the cartilage of rib 7. The cartilage of rib 9 connects to the cartilage of rib 8. The cartilage of rib 10 connects to the cartilage of rib 9.

Ribs 11 and 12. Ribs 11 and 12 do not have any connection with the sternum.

Large hole the spinal cord passes through.

Cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum is called this.

A lateral curvature of the vertebral column while examining from a posterior view.