Thoracic vertebra T6

Function

Load-bearing mid-thoracic vertebra whose ribs shield the liver (right) and stomach (left); its cord segment supplies the xiphoid dermatome.

Landmarks

• Costal facets
• Demifacets
• Spinous process

Articulations (joints)

• T5 above
• T7 below
• Sixth rib

Clinical relevance

Herpes zoster of the T6 dermatome produces a band of vesicles around the lower rib cage.