24 OSTEOLOGY, OR ANATOMY OF OSSEOUS SYSTEM 



the inferior thyroid artery crosses beneath the common carotid. 

 Opposite it, also, are the cricoid cartilage, the lower ends of 

 the larynx and pharynx, and the beginning of the trachea 

 and esophagus. 



The Dorsal or Thoracic Vertebrae 



The dorsal vertebrae are intermediate in size between the 

 cervical and lumbar, increasing in size from above downward. 

 They are easily recognized by the articular facets for the ribs. 



FIG. 3 



Superior articular process. 



Demi-facet for head of rib. 



Facet for tubercle of rib. 



1 ><',,i i-f ncet for head of rib. 

 Inferior tni'n nlar jtrocc**. 



A dorsal vertebra. 



The body is relatively small, and heart-shaped; its antero- 

 posterior and transverse diameters are nearly equal, and its 

 depth is greater behind than in front. Where the arch joins 

 the body there are articular surfaces for the heads of ribs, 

 generally two on each side, one at the upper and one at the 



