Sternoclavicular Posterior Ligament

ligamentum sternoclaviculare posterius

The posterior sternoclavicular ligament reinforces the posterior wall of the sternoclavicular joint capsule, running from the posterior clavicular head to the posterior manubrial surface.

Region: Shoulder

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

The primary restraint against posterior clavicular displacement — the most clinically important SC ligament because posterior SC dislocation is potentially life-threatening due to proximity to mediastinal structures.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Posterior SC dislocation (rare but dangerous) disrupts the posterior SC ligament and may compress the trachea, oesophagus, and great vessels. Closed reduction under anaesthesia with thoracic surgery standby is the standard management. The posterior SC ligament is repaired or reconstructed (typically with gracilis or semitendinosus graft) for recurrent instability.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Posterior Sternoclavicular Dislocation

Posterior clavicular displacement compressing the mediastinal structures producing dyspnoea, dysphagia, and venous congestion, requiring urgent reduction with thoracic surgery standby.

Posterior SC Ligament Reconstruction

Semitendinosus or gracilis graft reconstruction of the posterior SC ligament for recurrent posterior SC instability after failed conservative management.