Lateral Angle Of The Scapula

Description

Lateral angle of the scapula centers on the glenoid cavity, the shallow articular surface that faces laterally to meet the head of the humerus at the glenohumeral joint. Surrounding the glenoid fossa, the scapular neck narrows medially toward the body of the scapula, while the supraglenoid tubercle sits superiorly and the infraglenoid tubercle sits inferiorly as prominent cortical landmarks. From this same corner, the coracoid process projects anterolaterally and the base of the acromion lies posterolaterally, framing the socket region against the thoracic cage. Joint congruence is the focus. Glenoid anatomy matters because small changes in rim contour or tubercle position translate directly into stability and soft tissue tension around the shoulder. An anterior glenohumeral dislocation commonly injures the anteroinferior labrum (Bankart lesion) along the glenoid rim, and bony Bankart fractures are described by their relationship to the glenoid face and neck. The supraglenoid tubercle marks the attachment of the long head of biceps brachii via the superior labrum, while the infraglenoid tubercle anchors the long head of triceps brachii, both frequent reference points when teaching SLAP tears, posterior shoulder pain patterns, or operative portals that must respect the glenoid clock-face orientation. Orthopedic texts and lecture slides on shoulder instability, glenoid bone loss measurement, and Latarjet or Bankart repair planning benefit from an illustration that isolates the lateral scapular corner and keeps the glenoid surface readable without distraction from the full thorax. Anatomy and kinesiology courses can pair this image with rotator cuff and capsulolabral diagrams to reinforce how the scapular blade (shoulder blade) positions the glenoid on the lateral thoracic wall. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.