The anterior sternoclavicular ligament is a broad, flat fibrous band reinforcing the anterior capsule of the sternoclavicular joint. It runs from the anterior surface of the sternal end of the clavicle downward and medially to the anterior surface of the manubrium and adjacent first costal cartilage. Together with the posterior SC ligament, interclavicular ligament, costoclavicular ligament, and intraarticular disc it forms the SC joint stabilising complex.
| Origin | Anterior surface of the sternal end of the clavicle |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Anterior surface of the upper manubrium |
Primary restraint against anterior displacement of the clavicular head, resisting forces that would displace the medial clavicle anteriorly. In contrast, the posterior sternoclavicular ligament is the stronger restraint against the rarer and more dangerous posterior dislocation.
Anterior sternoclavicular dislocation is more common than the posterior variety and usually results from an indirect force on the front of the shoulder that levers the medial clavicle forward. The dislocated clavicular head produces a visible and palpable anterior prominence. Most anterior dislocations are managed conservatively in a sling; closed reduction is often unstable, and a residual bump is usually accepted because the mediastinal structures are not at risk. Figure-of-eight tendon graft reconstruction is reserved for chronic, symptomatic instability.
Anterior clavicular head displacement from the sternum following direct anterolateral chest trauma produces a visible step and local tenderness managed conservatively in most cases, though the cosmetic deformity from a persistent unreduced dislocation is accepted in low-demand patients given the surgical complexity of open reduction.
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.
