T4 or Fourth Thoracic Vertebra, Inferior View

Description

Oriented from an inferior aspect, the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4) is presented with the vertebral body anterior and the vertebral arch posterior, framing the vertebral foramen centrally. Along the posterolateral margins, the pedicles lead into the laminae and spinous process, while the transverse processes project laterally from the vertebral arch. On the inferolateral border of the vertebral body, the inferior costal demifacets mark the partial rib articulations that distinguish a mid thoracic vertebra from cervical and lumbar levels. Facet joints are implied at the inferior articular processes, positioned posteroinferior to the pedicles. An inferior view clarifies how T4 participates in the thoracic cage: the inferior demifacet on the body joins the head of a rib (classically the rib corresponding to the vertebral number), and the transverse process contributes to the costotransverse articulation for rib motion in ventilation. Small errors in identifying these articular surfaces can mislead learners when tracking pain referral patterns from costovertebral joints or when correlating CT anatomy in suspected thoracic spine fractures. Rib facet morphology also helps clinicians recognize transitional anatomy and level counting pitfalls around the upper thoracic spine. Use this plate for gross anatomy teaching on the thoracic vertebrae, osteology practicals, and for atlas figures explaining costovertebral and zygapophysial joint orientation in the mid thoracic region. It also suits spine surgery and radiology resources that need a clean reference for T4 landmarks when planning posterior instrumentation, where pedicle position and the relationship of the vertebral foramen to the arch matter. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.