Thoracic Vertebrae and Rib Articulation: Costal Foveae, Transverse Processes & Articular Facets

The parts of the thoracic vertebrae that articulate with ribs are the:

- Costal foveae: These are two small depressions on the body of the vertebra, into which the head of the rib articulates.

- Transverse processes: These are two projections that extend laterally from the body of the vertebra. The heads of the ribs articulate with the transverse processes.

- Articular facets: These are flat, smooth surfaces on the transverse processes and the body of the vertebra that allow for the articulation of the ribs.

- Costovertebral joints: These are the joints formed between the head of the rib, the costal foveae, the transverse processes, and the articular facets.