The scapula is a triangular flat bone forming the posterior shoulder girdle, featuring the glenoid cavity for the shoulder joint, the acromion and coracoid processes, and extensive surfaces for 17 muscles of the shoulder and arm.
| Articulations |
|
|---|---|
| Landmarks |
|
| Ossification | Multiple endochondral and membranous centres. Coracoid, acromion, and glenoid have separate apophyseal centres fusing in adolescence. |
Scapular fractures require high-energy trauma and imply significant associated injuries (pneumothorax, rib fractures, vascular injury) in 40 to 90 percent of cases. Winging from serratus anterior or trapezius paralysis impairs glenohumeral mechanics. The suprascapular notch contains the suprascapular nerve, which is compressed producing supraspinatus and infraspinatus weakness. Glenoid defects from recurrent shoulder dislocations require bone grafting (Latarjet procedure).
Uncommon fractures caused by high-energy trauma, usually involving the body or neck; they are frequently associated with rib fractures, pneumothorax, and other chest injuries.
Paralysis of serratus anterior (long thoracic nerve) or trapezius (accessory nerve) lets the medial border of the scapula lift off the chest wall.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
