Dorsal Vertebra (Noun)
Meaning
One of 12 vertebrae in the human vertebral column; thoracic vertebrae extend from the seventh cervical vertebra down to the first lumbar vertebra.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The spine consists of five regions including the cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and the coccyx, with the thoracic or dorsal vertebra being one of the twelve found in the spine.
- Each dorsal vertebra is unique in its structure and design, with morphological distinctions existing between consecutive vertebrae from the thoracic to the lumbar regions.
- Understanding the anatomy of the dorsal vertebra is essential for orthopedic surgeons who operate on patients with spinal diseases or injuries.
- There are twelve dorsal vertebrae located in the thoracic spine which extends from the base of the neck down to the abdomen.
- The ribs usually attach to a thoracic or dorsal vertebra which provides added protection to the thoracic cavity.