Scapular Head, Lateral View

Description

Scapular head (caput scapulae) is presented from a fixed lateral perspective, emphasizing the lateral angle where the glenoid cavity (fossa glenoidalis) faces laterally and slightly anteriorly. The scapular neck (collum scapulae) narrows medially from the glenoid margin toward the body, while the coracoid process projects anterosuperiorly above the superior rim of the glenoid. Posteriorly and superiorly, the acromion and the lateral extension of the scapular spine frame the glenohumeral region, providing orientation to the supraglenoid and infraglenoid tubercles at the superior and inferior poles of the cavity. Bony contours read cleanly. Orthopaedic anatomy often hinges on the exact relationship between the glenoid rim, the scapular neck, and the coracoid base, and this lateral view helps you judge that geometry without distraction from the medial blade. Anterior shoulder dislocation commonly produces a Bankart lesion at the anteroinferior glenoid rim, and rim fractures or bone loss are assessed relative to the glenoid surface and adjacent neck, which is also a key landmark in scapular neck fractures and in planning glenoid component placement for reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Subtle changes in rim contour matter when teaching how the labrum deepens the socket or when discussing osseous defects that drive instability. Suitable for gross anatomy and kinesiology teaching on the pectoral girdle, the illustration also fits orthopaedic lecture decks on glenoid fractures, shoulder instability, and preoperative planning diagrams for arthroplasty or Latarjet-type coracoid transfer. It reproduces well in atlases, journal figures, and surgical consent materials where a lateral scapular reference is needed. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.