Superior Costal Facet of Fifth Thoracic Vertebra

Description

The superior costal facets are the smooth articular areas on the vertebral body of the fifth thoracic vertebra. They are found on the upper edge of the posterolateral aspects of the vertebral body, just anterior to the roots of the pedicles.

Each superior costal facet of the fifth thoracic vertebra is a demifacet that combines with the inferior costal facet of the fourth thoracic vertebra to form the area that articulates with the head of the fifth rib, forming the joint of the head of the fifth rib.