Neck Of The Scapula, Lateral View

Description

Collum scapulae (neck of the scapula) forms the constricted bony column immediately medial to the glenoid cavity, bridging the articular region to the scapular body in a lateral shoulder perspective. From this lateral viewpoint, the glenoid fossa sits laterally and slightly anterior, while the neck thickens inferiorly toward the lateral border and posteriorly toward the root of the scapular spine. The coracoid process projects anterosuperior to the glenoid, and the acromion caps the superior aspect of the glenohumeral region, framing the neck as the transition zone between the shoulder joint surface and the blade-like body. A tight space. Scapular neck anatomy matters whenever you discuss extra-articular fractures around the glenoid, because displacement here can alter glenohumeral alignment even when the articular surface itself remains intact. Orthopedic texts often separate fractures of the anatomic neck adjacent to the glenoid from fractures of the surgical neck at the lateral border, and this illustration supports that distinction by keeping the reader oriented to the glenoid rim, the base of the coracoid, and the posterior buttress created by the scapular spine. The fixed lateral perspective also helps when explaining why large deltoid and rotator cuff forces may translate fracture fragments and why computed tomography planning frequently focuses on the scapular neck and glenoid relationship. Use this illustration in shoulder and upper limb anatomy courses to teach the scapula as part of the pectoral girdle, or in trauma and sports medicine materials addressing scapular fractures and glenoid-associated injuries. It also fits operative planning figures for posterior or Judet-type exposures where the lateral border, spine, and periscapular landmarks guide approach selection. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.