Scapular Clavicular Facet

Description

Acromion of the scapula is centered on the clavicular facet at its medial margin, the smooth, ovoid articular surface that faces anteromedially to meet the acromial end of the clavicle and form the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. Immediately posterior to the facet, the acromial cortex thickens toward the spine of the scapula, while inferiorly the subacromial surface drops away toward the supraspinous outlet. Medial and slightly inferior to the articular area, the root of the coracoid process and the superior border of the scapula provide orientation within the shoulder girdle. Edges of the facet are well defined. AC joint anatomy matters most when pain localizes to the top of the shoulder, where osteoarthritis, distal clavicle osteolysis, and post-traumatic incongruity after AC separation often target the articular cartilage and subchondral bone of this surface. The illustration’s focus on the articular geometry helps you appreciate how a small change in joint congruence can translate into focal tenderness at the AC joint line and a positive cross-body adduction test, even when the glenohumeral joint remains unremarkable. Bony landmarks around the facet also support procedural planning for AC joint injection, arthroscopic distal clavicle excision (Mumford procedure), and reconstruction that must respect the nearby trapezoid and conoid components of the coracoclavicular ligament complex on the coracoid side of the scapula. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and orthopaedic teaching blocks covering the pectoral girdle, or in radiology and sports medicine materials pairing surface anatomy with AC joint radiographs and CT. It also suits operative atlases describing distal clavicle resection margins and postoperative complications such as residual superior osteophytes. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.