Scapula

Os scapulae

The scapula sits on the posterolateral aspect of the thorax between ribs 2 and 7. Key features include the spine, acromion, coracoid process, glenoid cavity (for the shoulder joint), supraspinous and infraspinous fossae, and subscapular fossa.

Type Bone
Système corporel Skeletal
Région corporelle Shoulder
Structure parente endochondral bone
Nom latin Os scapulae
FMA ID 13394

Fonction

A flat, triangular bone that forms the posterior part of the shoulder girdle. Provides attachment for numerous muscles and articulates with the clavicle and humerus.

Signification clinique

Scapular fractures typically result from high-energy trauma and are often associated with thoracic injuries. Scapular winging occurs with long thoracic nerve palsy. The acromion process can impinge on the rotator cuff.

Questions fréquentes

What is the function of the scapula?
The scapula (shoulder blade) is a flat triangular bone that serves as the attachment site for 17 muscles involved in arm and shoulder movement. It forms two important joints: the glenohumeral joint (shoulder joint) via the glenoid cavity, and the acromioclavicular joint via the acromion. The scapula enables a wide range of arm movements through coordinated scapular rotation, elevation, depression, protraction, and retraction.
Where is the scapula located?
The scapula lies on the posterior thoracic wall, overlying approximately ribs 2 through 7. It is a floating bone with no direct bony connection to the axial skeleton — it is held in place entirely by muscles. The spine of the scapula, a prominent ridge on its posterior surface, is easily palpable and leads to the acromion, which projects over the shoulder joint.
What is a scapular winging?
Scapular winging occurs when the medial border of the scapula protrudes abnormally from the posterior chest wall, resembling a wing. The most common cause is paralysis of the serratus anterior muscle due to injury of the long thoracic nerve (C5–C7), which is vulnerable to traction injuries. Less commonly, trapezius weakness from spinal accessory nerve damage causes lateral winging.

Structures associées

articulation joint nutrient foramen conduit outer fibrous layer of periosteum capsular layer of periosteum periosteum pre-cartilage condensation pre-chondrogenic condensation postcranial axial skeleton axial skeleton radial element actinost cavity of bone organ bone organ cavity

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Educational Disclaimer

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Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.