T-spine
Medical abbreviation · Anatomy
| Stands for | Thoracic spine |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
T-spine stands for Thoracic spine, an anatomy abbreviation.
The twelve vertebrae of the mid-back (T1 to T12), each joined to a pair of ribs, making this the stiffest and best-protected part of the spine. Thoracic disc herniations are uncommon, but osteoporotic compression fractures frequently occur here.
Example: T-spine films show a new T8 compression fracture with 30% height loss.
Usage notes
The thoracolumbar junction (about T11 to L2) is the most common site of traumatic spine fractures, because it is where the rigid thoracic spine meets the mobile lumbar spine. Excessive thoracic curvature is called kyphosis. Thoracic levels also mark skin dermatomes, such as T4 at the nipple line and T10 at the umbilicus.
Related abbreviations
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.