Anatomical Characteristics Of The Greater Tubercle Of The Humerus

Description

Greater tubercle (tuberculum majus) of the proximal humerus occupies the lateral margin of the humeral head, projecting superiorly and laterally beyond the metaphysis. The humeral head sits medial and slightly posterior to the tubercle, while the lesser tubercle lies anterior with the intertubercular sulcus (bicipital groove) running between them; inferiorly, the prominence blends into the surgical neck. On the superior surface, three impression facets are typically appreciable, oriented from anterior to posterior for supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and teres minor tendon insertions, separated by subtle ridges that mirror rotator cuff footprint anatomy. A key landmark. These surface contours matter because the greater tubercle is both a rotator cuff insertion site and a common locus for avulsion and impaction fractures after anterior shoulder dislocation, with displacement influencing subacromial clearance and postoperative tendon healing. The relationships to the bicipital groove and humeral head help clarify why malreduction can alter the course of the long head of biceps tendon and contribute to persistent anterior shoulder pain. Crisp bony relief in a fixed lateral and anterolateral orientation supports teaching of tendon attachment topography without the distraction of surrounding soft tissues. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and kinesiology modules to anchor rotator cuff insertion sites, in orthopedic texts discussing proximal humerus fracture classification (including greater tuberosity fragments), and in sports medicine materials on subacromial impingement and cuff tendinopathy. It also suits preoperative planning graphics for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, where accurate identification of the greater tubercle footprint guides anchor placement relative to the articular margin and the intertubercular sulcus. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.