Thoracic vertebra T12

Function

The thoracolumbar hinge. Below it the spine gains mobility for bending but loses the ribs' splinting — making T12–L2 the busiest fracture zone of the spine.

Landmarks

• Body facet for the twelfth rib
• Lumbar-type articular processes
• Spinous process

Articulations (joints)

• T11 above
• L1 below
• Twelfth rib

Clinical relevance

The conus medullaris tapers to an end at approximately T12–L1; injuries here mix upper and lower motor neuron signs and disturb bladder control.