Overview of Scapula Anatomy

Study Notes

Overview of Scapula Anatomy

Definition: Scapula, also known as the shoulder blade, is a flat, triangular bone located in the upper back.
Function: Provides attachment points for muscles, helps in the movement of the shoulder joint, and forms part of the shoulder girdle.

Key Features

Surfaces:
- Anterior (costal) surface: Concave and contains the subscapular fossa.
- Posterior surface: Convex and features the spine of the scapula.
Borders:
- Superior border: Shortest; contains the scapular notch.
- Medial (vertebral) border: Runs parallel to the spine.
- Lateral (axillary) border: Thicker and closest to the armpit.
Angles:
- Superior angle: Formed by the intersection of the superior and medial borders.
- Inferior angle: Formed by the intersection of the medial and lateral borders, important for movement and muscle attachment.
- Lateral angle: Contains the glenoid cavity, which articulates with the humerus.

Processes and Notable Markings

Spine of the Scapula: Prominent ridge on the posterior surface; ends in the acromion.
Acromion: Extends laterally from the spine, articulates with the clavicle.
Coracoid process: Projects anteriorly; serves as an attachment site for ligaments and muscles.

Articulations

Glenohumeral Joint: Formed by the glenoid cavity of the scapula and the head of the humerus.
Acromioclavicular Joint: Formed by the acromion and the clavicle.
Sternoclavicular Joint: Indirectly associated via the clavicle.

Muscle Attachments

Rotator Cuff Muscles: Attach to the scapula, important for shoulder stability.
Other Muscles:
- Subscapularis: Attaches to the subscapular fossa.
- Trapezius: Attaches to the spine and acromion.
- Rhomboids: Attach to the medial border.
- Serratus Anterior: Attaches to the anterior surface, crucial for scapular protraction.

Clinical Relevance

Fractures: Scapular fractures can occur but are relatively rare; usually from significant trauma.
Scapular Winging: Caused by weakness of the serratus anterior, leading to scapula protrusion.

Summary

The scapula is a vital component of the shoulder girdle, facilitating arm movement and muscle attachment.
Its structure includes multiple surfaces, borders, angles, and processes essential for its functions.

Scapula Anatomy

Definition: The scapula, also known as the shoulder blade, is a flat, triangular bone situated in the upper back.
Function: The scapula provides attachment points for muscles, aids in the movement of the shoulder joint, and forms a part of the shoulder girdle.

Key Features

Surfaces:
- Anterior (costal) surface: This surface is concave and contains the subscapular fossa.
- Posterior surface: This surface is convex and features the spine of the scapula.
Borders:
- Superior border: This is the shortest border; it contains the scapular notch.
- Medial (vertebral) border: This border runs parallel to the spine.
- Lateral (axillary) border: This border is thicker and closer to the armpit.
Angles:
- Superior angle: Formed by the intersection of the superior and medial borders.
- Inferior angle: Formed by the intersection of the medial and lateral borders. It's important for movement and muscle attachment.
- Lateral angle: Contains the glenoid cavity where the humerus articulates.

Processes and Notable Markings

Spine of the Scapula: A prominent ridge on the posterior surface ending in the acromion.
Acromion: Extends laterally from the spine and articulates with the clavicle.
Coracoid process: Projects anteriorly. It serves as an attachment site for ligaments and muscles.

Articulations

Glenohumeral Joint: This joint is formed by the glenoid cavity of the scapula and the head of the humerus.
Acromioclavicular Joint: This joint is formed by the acromion and the clavicle.
Sternoclavicular Joint: This joint is indirectly related via the clavicle.

Muscle Attachments

Rotator Cuff Muscles: These muscles attach to the scapula and are crucial for shoulder stability.
Other Muscles:
- Subscapularis: Attaches to the subscapular fossa.
- Trapezius: Attaches to the spine and acromion.
- Rhomboids: Attach to the medial border.
- Serratus Anterior: Attaches to the anterior surface and is critical for scapular protraction.

Clinical Relevance

Fractures: Scapular fractures are less common but can occur from significant trauma.
Scapular Winging: Caused by weakness in the serratus anterior, leading to scapula protrusion.

Summary

The scapula is a vital part of the shoulder girdle, facilitating arm movement and muscle attachment.
Its structure, including surfaces, borders, angles, and processes, contribute to its multiple functions.

Description

Explore the detailed anatomy of the scapula, commonly known as the shoulder blade. This quiz covers essential features such as its surfaces, borders, and angles, highlighting their functions in shoulder movement and muscle attachment. Test your knowledge and understanding of this important bone in the upper back.