Vertebra T11

The thoracic vertebra T11 (11th thoracic vertebra) is part of the thoracolumbar junction and exhibits unique anatomical features that distinguish it from other thoracic vertebrae:

• The T11 vertebra typically has a vertebral body that is more robust and larger compared to the upper thoracic vertebrae, reflecting its role in bearing more weight as the spine transitions to the lumbar region.

• The superior articular processes of T11 are oriented in a coronal plane, similar to other thoracic vertebrae, but the inferior articular processes begin to adopt a more sagittal orientation, characteristic of lumbar vertebrae. This transition in facet orientation contributes to the biomechanical properties of the thoracolumbar junction, which is a common site for spinal injuries due to its relative instability.

• The spinous process of T11 is typically shorter and more horizontal compared to the upper thoracic vertebrae, which have longer and more caudally oriented spinous processes.

• The transverse processes of T11 are also shorter and do not articulate with ribs, unlike the transverse processes of the upper thoracic vertebrae.

• The vertebral canal at T11 is oval-shaped, with the width being greater than the length, which is consistent with the lower thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. This shape accommodates the spinal cord and the cauda equina as it descends through the spinal canal.