Thoracic vertebra T10

Function

Marks the oesophageal hiatus level of the diaphragm and begins the transition to lumbar-type vertebrae with single rib facets and heavier bodies.

Landmarks

• Single costal facet
• Spinous process

Articulations (joints)

• T9 above
• T11 below
• Tenth rib (whole facet — no demifacets)

Clinical relevance

The tenth rib usually attaches only by cartilage to the ninth — fractures here can lacerate the spleen (left) or liver (right).