Transverse Costal Facet Of The Thoracic Vertebra, Anatomy

Description

Transverse costal facet anatomy is centered on the smooth, circular articular surface on the lateral aspect of a thoracic vertebra’s transverse process. In this close anatomical framing, the facet sits lateral to the pedicle and posterolateral to the vertebral body, positioned inferior to the superior articular process and posterior to the region where the rib’s neck approaches the vertebral column. The transverse process projects laterally from the vertebral arch, with the lamina and spinous process continuing medially and posteriorly, providing orientation for the costotransverse articulation. Bony relief around the facet helps distinguish the articular margin from the nonarticular cortex of the transverse process. Small surface details matter. Costotransverse joint anatomy is a recurring point of confusion for learners because it must be mentally paired with the rib’s tubercle and differentiated from the costovertebral joints at the vertebral body and intervertebral disc, and this illustration keeps attention on that single transverse facet and its local landmarks. Clinically, degenerative change or inflammatory arthropathy at the costotransverse joint can mimic thoracic radicular pain or posterior chest wall pain, and the transverse process is also a key target zone for thoracic paravertebral blocks and some medial branch-related pain procedures. The lighting and surface finish emphasize cartilage-bearing bone versus surrounding nonarticular cortex, which supports accurate labeling in teaching diagrams and surgical discussions. You can drop this illustration into thorax and vertebral column modules in gross anatomy, musculoskeletal radiology teaching on thoracic CT landmarks, or orthopedic and spine surgery content explaining posterior element exposure and rib articulation. It also fits pain medicine and regional anesthesia materials where precise vertebral and rib joint landmarks reduce ambiguity in written protocols. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.