Scapula

The scapula, or shoulder blade, is a flat, triangular bone located on the posterior aspect of the thoracic cage. It is an integral part of the pectoral girdle, connecting the upper limb to the axial skeleton and facilitating a wide range of shoulder movements.

Anatomical features

Anatomically, the scapula features several important anatomical features:

• Borders: Medial (vertebral), lateral (axillary), and superior borders.

• Angles: Superior, inferior, and lateral angles, with the lateral angle housing the glenoid cavity, which articulates with the head of the humerus.

• Fossae: The subscapular fossa is on the anterior surface, and the supraspinous and infraspinous fossae are on the posterior surface.

• Processes: The acromion process articulates with the clavicle, while the coracoid process serves as a muscle attachment site. The spinous process is on the back of the scapula and separates the supraspinous fossa from the infraspinous fossa.

The scapula serves as an attachment site for multiple muscles, including the rotator cuff muscles and others involved in shoulder movement and stability.