The twelve thoracic vertebrae are characterized by their articulation with ribs. 

A typical thoracic vertebra has a somewhat heart-shaped vertebral body when viewed from above and a circular vertebral foramen. The vertebral body has two partial facets - superior and inferior costal facets - on each side for articulation with the head of its corresponding rib and the head of the rib below. Each transverse process has a transverse costal facet that articulates with the tubercle of its corresponding rib.