By Anatomography [CC BY-SA 2.1], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 1.0 – Overview of the thoracic spine. Summer School Programs Antioch Ca. The thoracic spine is the second segment of the, located between the cervical and lumbar vertebral segments. Measurement Studio License more. It consists of twelve vertebrae, which are separated by intervertebral discs. Along with the sternum and ribs, the thoracic spine forms part of the thoracic cage. This bony structure helps protect the internal viscera – such as the heart, lungs and oesophagus. Acca F1 Study Text Pdf. This article will look at the osteology of the thoracic vertebrae, examining their characteristic features, joints and clinical correlations. Characteristic Features The thoracic vertebrae have four features which distinguish them from other vertebrae: • Vertebral body is heart shaped.