Vertebra level | Significance / Associated Landmark |
C2 (Axis) | Dens (odontoid process) allows rotation of the head |
C4 | 1. Bifurcation of common carotid artery (CCA) 2. Upper border of thyroid cartilage |
C6 | Anterior tubercle of the C6 vertebra is known as carotid tubercle or chassaignac tubercle |
T2 | Superior border of scapula (Scapula bone T2 to T7) |
T4 / T5 | 1. Level of the sternal angle (Angle of Louis) 2. landmark for the second rib and bifurcation of the trachea |
T7 | Inferior angle of scapula (Scapula bone T2 to T7) |
T8 | 1. IVC opening in diaphragm 2. Hemiazygos vein cross from left to right |
T9 | Xiphisternal joint |
T10 | Oesophageal opening in diaphragm |
T12 | 1. Aortic opening in diaphragm 2. Celiac trunk (arises from abdominal aorta) |
L1 | 1. Trans pyloric plane 2. Superior mesenteric artery (arise from abdominal aorta) 3. End of the spinal cord (conus medullaris) in adults. |
L3 | Inferior mesenteric artery (arise from |
L4 | 1. Level of iliac crest 2. Abdominal aorta bifurcation |
L4 / L5 | Lumbar puncture site |
S2 | Level of the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) |