Spinoglenoid Ligament

ligamentum spinoglenoidale

The spinoglenoid ligament, also called the inferior transverse scapular ligament, spans the spinoglenoid notch between the lateral scapular spine and the posterior glenoid rim. It forms a roof over the passage through which the suprascapular nerve and vessels travel from the supraspinous to the infraspinous fossa to supply the infraspinatus muscle.

Region: Shoulder

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Creates a second fibro-osseous tunnel along the suprascapular nerve's course, separate from the suprascapular notch, governing access to the infraspinous fossa.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Spinoglenoid notch cysts arising from posterior labral tears are the most common cause of compression at this level, producing isolated infraspinatus atrophy without supraspinatus involvement. This pattern of selective weakness is diagnostically important, distinguishing spinoglenoid from suprascapular notch pathology. MRI demonstrating both the ganglion and associated labral tear guides management, with labral repair and cyst decompression performed arthroscopically.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Spinoglenoid Notch Cyst

A paralabral ganglion cyst from a posterior labral tear herniates into the spinoglenoid notch, compressing the infraspinatus branch of the suprascapular nerve and causing selective infraspinatus wasting and external rotation weakness.