CLAVICLE.pdf

CLAVICLE ----DR. MADHURIMA RUDRA The clavicle (collarbone) extends between the manubrium of the sternum and the acromion of the scapula. It is classed as a long bone and can be palpated along its length. In thin individuals, it is visible under the skin. The clavicle has three main functions: At...

CLAVICLE ----DR. MADHURIMA RUDRA The clavicle (collarbone) extends between the manubrium of the sternum and the acromion of the scapula. It is classed as a long bone and can be palpated along its length. In thin individuals, it is visible under the skin. The clavicle has three main functions: Attaches the upper limb to the trunk as part of the ‘shoulder girdle’. Protects the underlying neurovascular structures supplying the upper limb. Transmits force from the upper limb to the axial skeleton. Bony Landmarks and Articulations The clavicle is a slender bone with an ‘S’ shape. Facing forward, the medial aspect is convex, and the lateral aspect concave. It can be divided into a sternal end, a shaft and an acromial end. Sternal (medial) End The sternal end contains a large facet – for articulation with the manubrium of the sternum at the sternoclavicular joint. The inferior surface of the sternal end is marked by a rough oval depression for the costoclavicular ligament (a ligament of the SC joint). Shaft The shaft of the clavicle acts a point of origin and attachment for several muscles – deltoid, trapezius, subclavius, pectoralis major, sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid Acromial (lateral) End The acromial end houses a small facet for articulation with the acromion of the scapula at the acromioclavicular joint. It also serves as an attachment point for two ligaments: Conoid tubercle – attachment point of the conoid ligament, the medial part of the coracoclavicular ligament. Trapezoid line – attachment point of the trapezoid ligament, the lateral part of the coracoclavicular ligament. The coracoclavicular ligament is a very strong structure, effectively suspending the weight of the upper limb from the clavicle.