Supraglenoid Tubercle Of The Scapula, Anterior View

Description

Supraglenoid tubercle crowns the superior margin of the glenoid cavity on the lateral angle of the scapula in this anterior (costal) view. Just inferior to the tubercle, the pear-shaped glenoid fossa faces laterally, while the neck of the scapula narrows medially into the broad subscapular fossa on the anterior surface. Superior and slightly medial to the glenoid, the base of the coracoid process is suggested as the anterior projection that frames the supraglenoid region, with the scapular spine remaining posterior and out of direct view from this perspective. Clinical relevance centers on the proximal attachment of the long head of the biceps brachii and the adjacent superior glenoid labrum, which blend at the biceps anchor along the supraglenoid tubercle. Small cortical irregularities here can correlate with traction-related biceps tendinopathy or a SLAP (superior labrum anterior to posterior) tear, and the landmark helps orient arthroscopic assessment of the superior labrum relative to the glenoid rim. Lighting and surface texture emphasize the roughened tubercle against the smoother articular margin, making the insertion site easy to distinguish from the glenoid cartilage surface. A small landmark, big consequences. Use this illustration in shoulder anatomy lectures to reinforce bony landmarks that predict soft-tissue attachments, or in orthopedic and sports medicine publications discussing SLAP lesions, biceps tenodesis, and proximal biceps pathology. It also suits preoperative teaching for arthroscopy, where the supraglenoid tubercle helps triangulate the superior glenoid rim and adjacent coracoid-based orientation on anterior shoulder views. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.