Bones of the vertebral column are divided into 5 sets based on distinctive identifying characteristics. Identify each set using a complete skeleton or by examining individual vertebral bones.

Figure 1-16
Characteristics of cervical vertebrae. Arrows point to foramina in the transverse processes.

Figure 1-17
Characteristics of thoracic vertebrae as seen on T6. Arrows point to costal facets.

Figure 1-18
Lumbar vertebrae L5, superior view.

Figure 1-19
Adult sacrum and coccyx.

The cervical vertebrae have transverse foramina in each of the transverse processes. C2 through C6 have bifid spinous processes. (Figure 1-16)

Distinctive characteristics of cervical vertebrae:

• transverse foramina
• bifid spinous process

The thoracic vertebrae have costal facets and spine-like spinous processes. T1 through T10 have inferiorly directed spinous processes. (Figure 1-17)

Distinctive characteristics of thoracic vertebrae:

• costal facets
• spine-like spinous processes

The lumbar vertebrae have massive vertebral bodies and rounded short spinous processes. The vertebral foramen is small and has pinched lateral angles. (Figure 1-18)

Distinctive characteristics of lumbar vertebrae:

• massive vertebral body
• mammillary process for multifidus origin
• rounded, short spinous processes

The adult sacrum is a fusion of five vertebrae while the adult coccyx consists of three or four separate vertebrae. (Figure 1-19)

Distinctive characteristics of the sacrum:

• anterior intervertebral foramina
• posterior intervertebral foramina
• massive alae or superior "wings"
• fused vertebrae

Bones of the vertebral column are described as sets. Identify the sets using the following list as a guide:

• Cervical vertebrae, C1 through C7
• atlas - C1
• axis - C2
• Thoracic vertebrae, T1 through T 12
• Lumbar vertebrae, L1 through L5
• Sacral vertebrae, 5 fused
• Coccygeal vertebrae, 3-5