Thoracic vertebra T3

Function

Continues the thoracic cage's posterior column, transmitting the third rib's weight and shielding the spinal cord while intercostal nerves and vessels groove its undersurfaces.

Landmarks

• Costal facets
• Demifacets
• Spinous process
• Transverse costal facet

Articulations (joints)

• T2 above
• T4 below
• Third rib

Clinical relevance

Thoracic disc herniations are rare but at T3 can present as band-like chest pain mimicking cardiac disease.