Scapula, Lateral View

Description

Oriented in true lateral profile, the male scapula is presented with the glenoid cavity facing laterally and the acromion arching superiorly over the shoulder joint. Anterior to the glenoid, the coracoid process projects anterolaterally, while the scapular spine expands laterally into the acromion and separates the supraspinous and infraspinous fossae on the posterior surface. Along the margins, the superior border approaches the suprascapular notch, and the lateral (axillary) border runs inferiorly toward the inferior angle. Clean bony landmarks. Lateral scapular anatomy matters because it frames the osseous constraints and soft tissue attachments of the glenohumeral joint and coracoacromial arch. This angle supports teaching and preoperative planning for subacromial impingement, where acromial morphology and the relationship of the acromion to the greater tubercle influence rotator cuff abrasion and bursal irritation, and for anterior shoulder instability where the glenoid rim and neck guide assessment of bony Bankart lesions. It also maps the corridor for arthroscopy portals around the acromion and coracoid, and for open approaches that must respect the suprascapular notch region where the suprascapular nerve is at risk. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and osteology labs to drill scapular side determination and to connect palpable landmarks (acromion, coracoid) with joint orientation. It also fits orthopedic and sports medicine teaching materials on rotator cuff disease, acromioclavicular joint injury, and scapular dyskinesis, as well as radiology correlation for the scapular Y view and axillary lateral positioning. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.