Skip to main content

Anatomy of the Shoulder

  • Chapter
  • First Online:
  • 3134 Accesses

Abstract

When we study arthroscopic anatomy of the shoulder, we must not focus solely on structures visible from inside the joint. Whatever encloses the glenohumeral joint is important, in particular with reference to surgical approaches and portals. Moreover, we have to know the structures to be avoided so that we do not cause damages and complications.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution.

Buying options

Chapter
USD   29.95
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
eBook
USD   189.00
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book
USD   239.00
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Learn about institutional subscriptions

References

  1. DePalma A. Surgical anatomy of acromioclavicular and sternoclavicular joints. Surg Clin North Am. 1963;43:1541–50.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  2. Nutter P. Coracoclavicular articulations. J Bone Joint Surg. 1941;23A:177–9.

    Google Scholar 

  3. Lewis O. The coraco-clavicular joint. J Anat. 1959;93:296–303.

    CAS  PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  4. Urist M. Complete dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint. J Bone Joint Surg. 1963;45A:1750–3.

    Google Scholar 

  5. Rengachary SS, Burr D, Lucas S, Hassanein KM, Mohn MP, Matzke H. Suprascapular entrapment neuropathy: a clinical, anatomical, and comparative study. Part 2: anatomical study. Neurosurgery. 1979;5:447–51.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  6. Testut L. Traite d’anatomie humaine. Paris: Octave dion; 1904.

    Google Scholar 

  7. Hollinshead W. Anatomy for surgeons, vol. III. 3rd ed. Philadelphia: Harper & Row; 1982.

    Google Scholar 

  8. Bigliani LU, Ticker JB, Flatow EL, Soslowsky LJ, Mow VC. The relationship of acromial architecture to rotator cuff disease. Clin Sports Med. 1991;10:823–38.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  9. Bigliani L, Morrison D, April EW. The morphology of the acromion in its relationship to rotator cuff tears. Orthop Trans. 1986;10:228.

    Google Scholar 

  10. Freese A. Anatomische untersuchungen zur ossaren morphologie und stellung des akromions und deren bedeutung fur die atiologie des Impingement-Syndroms. Aachen: Diss; 1998.

    Google Scholar 

  11. Edelson JG, Taitz C. Anatomy of the coraco-acromial arch. Relation to degeneration of the acromion. J Bone Joint Surg. 1992;74B:589–94.

    Google Scholar 

  12. Petersson CJ, Redlund-Johnell I. The subacromial space in normal shoulder radiographs. Acta Orthop Scand. 1984;55:57–8.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  13. Cruveilhier J. Traité d’anatomie descriptive. Paris: Asselin; 1833.

    Google Scholar 

  14. Lilienfeld A. Uber das Os acromiale und seine beziehungen zu den affektionen der schultergegend. Fortschr Rontgenstr. 1914;21:198–205.

    Google Scholar 

  15. Symington J. Separate acromion process. J Anat Physiol. 1900;34:287–94.

    CAS  PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  16. Pfitzner W. Beitrage zur kenntnis des menschlichen extremitatenskelets. VIII: die morphologischen elemente des menschlichen handskelets. Morphol Anthropol. 1900;2:77–157.

    Google Scholar 

  17. Liberson F. Os acromiale – a contested anomaly. J Bone Joint Surg. 1937;19A:683–9.

    Google Scholar 

  18. Putz R, Liebermann J, Reichelt A. The function of the coracoacromial ligament. Acta Anat (Basel). 1988;131:140–5.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  19. Jobe M. Gross anatomy of the shoulder. In: Rockwood CA, Matsen FA, editors. The shoulder. Philadelphia: Saunders; 1990.

    Google Scholar 

  20. Dolan CM, Hariri S, Hart ND, McAdams TR. An anatomic study of the coracoid process as it relates to bone transfer procedures. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2011;20:497–501.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  21. Boileau P, Mercier N, Old J. Arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet (2B3) procedure: how to do it and tricks to make it easier and safe. Orthop Clin North Am. 2010;41:381–92.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  22. Boileau P, Mercier N, Roussanne Y, Thélu CÉ, Old J. Arthroscopic Bankart-Bristow-Latarjet procedure: the development and early results of a safe and reproducible technique. Arthroscopy. 2010;26:1434–50.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  23. Lafosse L, Boyle S, Gutierrez-Aramberri M, Shah A, Meller R. Arthroscopic latarjet procedure. Orthop Clin North Am. 2010;41:393–405.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  24. Lafosse L, Boyle S. Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2010;19:2–12.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  25. Lafosse L, Lejeune E, Bouchard A, Kakuda C, Gobezie R, Kochhar T. The arthroscopic Latarjet procedure for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability. Arthroscopy. 2007;23:1242.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  26. Haddad N, Khemiri C, Khorbi A, Ben Dali N, Filali Z, Kanoun ML, et al. Facteurs d’échec du traitement de l’instabilité antérieure de l’épaule par l’intervention de Latarjet. Tunis Orthop. 2008;1:150–5.

    Google Scholar 

  27. Hovelius L, Körner L, Lundberg B, Akermark C, Herberts P, Wredmark T, et al. The coracoid transfer for recurrent dislocation of the shoulder. Technical aspects of the Bristow-Latarjet procedure. J Bone Joint Surg. 1983;65A:926–34.

    Google Scholar 

  28. Vander Maren C, Geulette B, Lewalle J, Mullier J, Autrique JC, Thiery J, et al. Coracoid process abutment according to Latarjet versus the Bankart operation. A comparative study of the results in 50 cases. Acta Orthop Belg. 1993;59:147–55.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  29. Hamel A, Hamel O, Ploteau S, Robert R, Rogez JM, Malinge M. The arterial supply of the coracoid process. Surg Radiol Anat. 2012;34:599–607.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  30. Abrassart S, Stern R, Hoffmeyer P. Arterial supply of the glenoid: an anatomic study. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2006;15:232–8.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  31. Abbott L, Lucas D. The tripartite deltoid and its surgical significance in exposure of the scapulohumeral joint. Ann Surg. 1952;136:392–403.

    CAS  PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  32. Perry J. Biomechanics of the shoulder. In: Rowe C, editor. The shoulder. New York: Churchill Livingstone; 1988.

    Google Scholar 

  33. Bailie DS, Moseley B, Lowe WR. Surgical anatomy of the posterior shoulder: effects of arm position and anterior-inferior capsular shift. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 1999;8:307–13.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  34. Brown JM, Wickham JB, McAndrew DJ, Huang XF. Muscles within muscles: coordination of 19 muscle segments within three shoulder muscles during isometric motor tasks. J Electromyogr Kinesiol. 2007;17:57–73.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  35. Lorne E, Gagey O, Quillard J, Hue E, Gagey N. The fibrous frame of the deltoid muscle. Its functional and surgical relevance. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2001;386:222–5.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  36. Kumar VP, Satku K, Liu J, Shen Y. The anatomy of the anterior origin of the deltoid. J Bone Joint Surg. 1997;79B:680–3.

    Google Scholar 

  37. Leijnse JN, Han SH, Kwon YH. Morphology of deltoid origin and end tendons-a generic model. J Anat. 2008;213:733–42.

    CAS  PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  38. Sakoma Y, Sano H, Shinozaki N, Itoigawa Y, Yamamoto N, Ozaki T, et al. Anatomical and functional segments of the deltoid muscle. J Anat. 2011;218:185–90.

    PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  39. Loukas M, Grabska J, Tubbs RS, Apaydin N, Jordan R. Mapping the axillary nerve within the deltoid muscle. Surg Radiol Anat. 2009;31:43–7.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  40. Salmon M, Dor J. Les artères des muscles des membres et du tronc. Paris: Masson et Cie; 1933.

    Google Scholar 

  41. Vahlensieck M, Pollack M, Lang P, Grampp S, Genant HK. Two segments of the supraspinous muscle: cause of high signal intensity at MR imaging? Radiology. 1993;186:449–54.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  42. Roh MS, Wang VM, April EW, Pollock RG, Bigliani LU, Flatow EL. Anterior and posterior musculotendinous anatomy of the supraspinatus. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2000;9:436–40.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  43. Kim SY, Boynton EL, Ravichandiran K, Fung LY, Bleakney R, Agur AM. Three-dimensional study of the musculotendinous architecture of supraspinatus and its functional correlations. Clin Anat. 2007;20:648–55.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  44. McLaughlin HL. Lesions of the musculotendinous cuff of the shoulder: III. Observations on the pathology, course and treatment of calcific deposits. Ann Surg. 1946;124:354–62.

    PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  45. Holibka R, Holibková A, Laichman S, Růzicková K. Some peculiarities of the rotator cuff muscles. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub. 2003;147:233–7.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  46. Curtis AS, Burbank KM, Tierney JJ, Scheller AD, Curran AR. The insertional footprint of the rotator cuff: an anatomic study. Arthroscopy. 2006;22:603–9.

    Google Scholar 

  47. Minagawa H, Itoi E, Konno N, Kido T, Sano A, Urayama M, et al. Humeral attachment of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons: an anatomic study. Arthroscopy. 1998;14:302–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  48. Burkhart SS, Esch JC, Jolson RS. The rotator crescent and rotator cable: an anatomic description of the shoulder’s “suspension bridge”. Arthroscopy. 1993;9:611–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  49. Clark J, Sidles JA, Matsen FA. The relationship of the glenohumeral joint capsule to the rotator cuff. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1990;254:29–34.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  50. Ruotolo C, Fow JE, Nottage WM. The supraspinatus footprint: an anatomic study of the supraspinatus insertion. Arthroscopy. 2004;20:246–9.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  51. Ellman H. Diagnosis and treatment of incomplete rotator cuff tears. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1990;254:64–74.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  52. Clark JM, Harryman DT. Tendons, ligaments, and capsule of the rotator cuff. Gross and microscopic anatomy. J Bone Joint Surg. 1992;74A:713–25.

    Google Scholar 

  53. Colachis SC, Strohm BR, Brechner VL. Effects of axillary nerve block on muscle force in the upper extremity. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 1969;50:647–54.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  54. Shaffer BS, Conway J, Jobe FW, Kvitne RS, Tibone JE. Infraspinatus muscle-splitting incision in posterior shoulder surgery. An anatomic and electromyographic study. Am J Sports Med. 1994;22:113–20.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  55. Codman E. The shoulder. Boston: Thomas Todd; 1934.

    Google Scholar 

  56. Waterston D. Variations in the teres minor muscle. Anat Anz. 1908;32:331–3.

    Google Scholar 

  57. Hinton MA, Parker AW, Drez Jr D, Altcheck D. An anatomic study of the subscapularis tendon and myotendinous junction. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 1994;3:224–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  58. Pearsall AW, Holovacs TF, Speer KP. The intra-articular component of the subscapularis tendon: anatomic and histological correlation in reference to surgical release in patients with frozen-shoulder syndrome. Arthroscopy. 2000;16:236–42.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  59. Wright JM, Heavrin B, Hawkins RJ, Noonan T. Arthroscopic visualization of the subscapularis tendon. Arthroscopy. 2001;17:677–84.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  60. Macalister A. Additional observation on muscular anomalies in human anatomy. Trans R Ir Acad Sci. 1875;25:1–130.

    Google Scholar 

  61. Kameda Y. An anomalous muscle (accessory subscapularis-teres-latissimus muscle) in the axilla penetrating the brachial plexus in man. Acta Anat (Basel). 1976;96:513–33.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  62. Breisch EA. A rare human variation: the relationship of the axillary and inferior subscapular nerves to an accessory subscapularis muscle. Anat Rec. 1986;216:440–2.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  63. Yoshinaga K, Kawai K, Tanii I, Imaizumi K, Kodama K. Nerve fiber analysis on the so-called accessory subscapularis muscle and its morphological significance. Anat Sci Int. 2008;83:55–9.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  64. Staniek M, Brenner E. Variations in the anatomy of the anterior-inferior rotator cuff: the “infraglenoid muscle”. Ann Anat. 2012;194:373–80.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  65. Vangsness CT, Jorgenson SS, Watson T, Johnson DL. The origin of the long head of the biceps from the scapula and glenoid labrum. An anatomical study of 100 shoulders. J Bone Joint Surg. 1994;76B:951–4.

    Google Scholar 

  66. Paul S, Sehgal R, Khatri K. Anatomical variations in the labral attachment of the long head of biceps brachii. J Anat Soc India. 2004;53:49–51.

    Google Scholar 

  67. Johnson LL, Bays BM, Eda van Dyk G. Vincula of the biceps tendon in the glenohumeral joint: an arthroscopic and anatomic study. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 1992;1:162–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  68. Nakata W, Katou S, Fujita A, Nakata M, Lefor AT, Sugimoto H. Biceps pulley: normal anatomy and associated lesions at MR arthrography. Radiographics. 2011;31:791–810.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  69. Johnson LL. Arthroscopic surgical anatomy. In: Johnson LL, editor. Diagnostic and surgical arthroscopy of the shoulder. St Louis: Mosby; 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  70. Snyder S. Shoulder arthroscopy. New York: McGraw Hill; 1994.

    Google Scholar 

  71. Turkel SJ, Panio MW, Marshall JL, Girgis FG. Stabilizing mechanisms preventing anterior dislocation of the glenohumeral joint. J Bone Joint Surg. 1981;63A:1208–17.

    Google Scholar 

  72. Arai R, Mochizuki T, Yamaguchi K, Sugaya H, Kobayashi M, Nakamura T, et al. Functional anatomy of the superior glenohumeral and coracohumeral ligaments and the subscapularis tendon in view of stabilization of the long head of the biceps tendon. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2010;19:58–64.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  73. Cheng NM, Pan WR, Vally F, Le Roux CM, Richardson MD. The arterial supply of the long head of biceps tendon: anatomical study with implications for tendon rupture. Clin Anat. 2010;23:683–92.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  74. Ellis V. The diagnosis of shoulder lesions due to injuries of the rotator cuff. J Bone Joint Surg. 1953;35B:72–4.

    Google Scholar 

  75. Strizak AM, Danzig L, Jackson DW, Resnick D, Staple T. Subacromial bursography. An anatomical and clinical study. J Bone Joint Surg. 1982;64A:196–201.

    Google Scholar 

  76. Saha A. Theory of the shoulder mechanism: descriptive and applied. Springfield: Charles C Thomas; 1961.

    Google Scholar 

  77. Prescher A, Klümpen T. Does the area of the glenoid cavity of the scapula show sexual dimorphism? J Anat. 1995;186:223–6.

    PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  78. Prescher A, Klümpen T. The glenoid notch and its relation to the shape of the glenoid cavity of the scapula. J Anat. 1997;190:457–60.

    PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  79. Soslowsky LJ, Flatow EL, Bigliani LU, Mow VC. Articular geometry of the glenohumeral joint. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1992;285:181–90.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  80. Warner JJ, Bowen MK, Deng XH, Hannafin JA, Arnoczky SP, Warren RF. Articular contact patterns of the normal glenohumeral joint. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 1998;7:381–8.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  81. Iannotti JP, Gabriel JP, Schneck SL, Evans BG, Misra S. The normal glenohumeral relationships. An anatomical study of one hundred and forty shoulders. J Bone Joint Surg. 1992;74A:491–500.

    Google Scholar 

  82. Saha AK. Dynamic stability of the glenohumeral joint. Acta Orthop Scand. 1971;42:491–505.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  83. Saha AK. The classic. Mechanism of shoulder movements and a plea for the recognition of “zero position” of glenohumeral joint. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1983;173:3–10.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  84. De Maeseneer M, Van Roy F, Lenchik L, Shahabpour M, Jacobson J, Ryu KN, et al. CT and MR arthrography of the normal and pathologic anterosuperior labrum and labral-bicipital complex. Radiographics. 2000;20 Spec No:S67–81

    Google Scholar 

  85. Moseley H, Overgaard B. The anterior capsular mechanism in recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder. JBone Joint Surg. 1962;44A:913–27.

    Google Scholar 

  86. Detrisac D, Johnson L. Arthroscopic shoulder anatomy: pathological and surgical implications. New Jersey: Slack; 1986.

    Google Scholar 

  87. Cooper DE, Arnoczky SP, O’Brien SJ, Warren RF, DiCarlo E, Allen AA. Anatomy, histology, and vascularity of the glenoid labrum. An anatomical study. J Bone Joint Surg. 1992;74A:46–52.

    Google Scholar 

  88. Williams MM, Snyder SJ, Buford Jr D. The Buford complex – the “cord-like” middle glenohumeral ligament and absent anterosuperior labrum complex: a normal anatomic capsulolabral variant. Arthroscopy. 1994;10:241–7.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  89. Hertel R, Knothe U, Ballmer FT. Geometry of the proximal humerus and implications for prosthetic design. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2002;11:331–8.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  90. Di Giacomo G, Di Giacomo S, Silvestrini MG, Costantini A. L’artroscopia di spalla. Roma: Verduci; 2003.

    Google Scholar 

  91. DePalma A, Callery G, Bennet G. Variational anatomy and degenerative lesions of the shoulder joint. Am Acad Orthop Surg Instr Course Lect. 1949;6:255–80.

    Google Scholar 

  92. Ide J, Tokiyoshi A, Hirose J, Mizuta H. An anatomic study of the subscapularis insertion to the humerus: the subscapularis footprint. Arthroscopy. 2008;24:749–53.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  93. Boileau P, Walch G. The three-dimensional geometry of the proximal humerus. Implications for surgical technique and prosthetic design. J Bone Joint Surg. 1997;79B:857–65.

    Google Scholar 

  94. Habermeyer P. Zur funktionellen anatomie und biomechanik der langen bizepssehene. Unfallchirurg. 1991;90:319–29.

    Google Scholar 

  95. O’Brien S, Arnoczky S, Warren R, et al. Chapter 1. Developmental anatomy of the shoulder and anatomy of the glenohumeral joint. In: Rockwood CA, Matsen FA, editors. The shoulder, vol. I. 1st ed. Philadelphia: Saunders; 1990. p. 1–32.

    Google Scholar 

  96. Kummel BM. Spectrum of lesions of the anterior capsular mechanism of the shoulder. Am J Sports Med. 1979;7:111–20.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  97. Kaltsas DS. Comparative study of the properties of the shoulder joint capsule with those of other joint capsules. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1983;173:20–6.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  98. Cone RO, Danzig L, Resnick D, Goldman AB. The bicipital groove: radiographic, anatomic, and pathologic study. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1983;141:781–8.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  99. Williams P, Warwick R. Gray’s anatomy. 36th ed. Philadeplhia: WB Saunders; 1980.

    Google Scholar 

  100. Yang HF, Tang KL, Chen W, Dong SW, Jin T, Gong JC, et al. An anatomic and histologic study of the coracohumeral ligament. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2009;18:305–10.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  101. Harryman 2nd DT, Sidles JA, Harris SL, Matsen 3rd FA. The role of the rotator interval capsule in passive motion and stability of the shoulder. J Bone Joint Surg. 1992;74A:53–66.

    Google Scholar 

  102. Gohlke F, Essigkrug B, Schmitz F. The pattern of the collagen fiber bundles of the capsule of the glenohumeral joint. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 1994;3:111–28.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  103. Ferrari DA. Capsular ligaments of the shoulder. Anatomical and functional study of the anterior superior capsule. Am J Sports Med. 1990;18:20–4.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  104. Gambill ML, Mologne TS, Provencher MT. Dislocation of the long head of the biceps tendon with intact subscapularis and supraspinatus tendons. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2006;15:20–2.

    Google Scholar 

  105. Slätis P, Aalto K. Medial dislocation of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii. Acta Orthop Scand. 1979;50:73–7.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  106. Ide J, Maeda S, Takagi K. Normal variations of the glenohumeral ligament complex: an anatomic study for arthroscopic Bankart repair. Arthroscopy. 2004;20:164–8.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  107. DePalma A. Surgery of the shoulder. 3rd ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott; 1973.

    Google Scholar 

  108. O’Brien SJ, Neves MC, Arnoczky SP, Rozbruck SR, Dicarlo EF, Warren RF, et al. The anatomy and histology of the inferior glenohumeral ligament complex of the shoulder. Am J Sports Med. 1990;18:449–56.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  109. Warner JJ, Deng XH, Warren RF, Torzilli PA. Static capsuloligamentous restraints to superior-inferior translation of the glenohumeral joint. Am J Sports Med. 1992;20:675–85.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  110. Morgan C, Rames R, Snyder S. Arthroscopic assessment of anatomic variations of the glenohumeral ligaments associated with recurrent shoulder instability. Orthop Trans. 1992;16:727–8.

    Google Scholar 

  111. Steinbeck J, Liljenqvist U, Jerosch J. The anatomy of the glenohumeral ligamentous complex and its contribution to anterior shoulder stability. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 1998;7:122–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  112. Jost B, Koch PP, Gerber C. Anatomy and functional aspects of the rotator interval. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2000;9:336–41.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  113. Cahill BR, Palmer RE. Quadrilateral space syndrome. J Hand Surg Am. 1983;8:65–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  114. Tubbs RS, Tyler-Kabara EC, Aikens AC, Martin JP, Weed LL, Salter EG, et al. Surgical anatomy of the axillary nerve within the quadrangular space. J Neurosurg. 2005;102:912–4.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  115. Price MR, Tillett ED, Acland RD, Nettleton GS. Determining the relationship of the axillary nerve to the shoulder joint capsule from an arthroscopic perspective. J Bone Joint Surg. 2004;86A:2135–42.

    Google Scholar 

  116. Ball CM, Steger T, Galatz LM, Yamaguchi K. The posterior branch of the axillary nerve: an anatomic study. J Bone Joint Surg. 2003;85A:1497–501.

    Google Scholar 

  117. Gardner E. The innervation of the shoulder joint. Anat Rec. 1948;102:1–18.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  118. Lin J, Hou SM, Inoue N, Chao EY, Hang YS. Anatomic considerations of locked humeral nailing. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1999;368:247–54.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  119. Kamineni S, Ankem H, Sanghavi S. Anatomical considerations for percutaneous proximal humeral fracture fixation. Injury. 2004;35:1133–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  120. Jerosch J, Filler TJ, Peuker ET. Which joint position puts the axillary nerve at lowest risk when performing arthroscopic capsular release in patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder? Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2002;10:126–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  121. Eakin CL, Dvirnak P, Miller CM, Hawkins RJ. The relationship of the axillary nerve to arthroscopically placed capsulolabral sutures. An anatomic study. Am J Sports Med. 1998;26:505–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  122. Cummins CA, Messer TM, Nuber GW. Suprascapular nerve entrapment. J Bone Joint Surg. 2000;82A:415–24.

    Google Scholar 

  123. Lee HY, Chung IH, Sir WS, Kang HS, Lee HS, Ko JS, et al. Variations of the ventral rami of the brachial plexus. J Korean Med Sci. 1992;7:19–24.

    CAS  PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  124. Yang HJ, Gil YC, Jin JD, Ahn SV, Lee HY. Topographical anatomy of the suprascapular nerve and vessels at the suprascapular notch. Clin Anat. 2012;25:359–65.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  125. Hrdlicka A. The scapula: visual observations. Am J Phys Anthropol. 1942;29:73–94.

    Google Scholar 

  126. Edelson JG. Bony bridges and other variations of the suprascapular notch. J Bone Joint Surg. 1995;77B:505–6.

    Google Scholar 

  127. Duparc F, Coquerel D, Ozeel J, Noyon M, Gerometta A, Michot C. Anatomical basis of the suprascapular nerve entrapment, and clinical relevance of the supraspinatus fascia. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010;32:277–84.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  128. Natsis K, Totlis T, Tsikaras P, Appell HJ, Skandalakis P, Koebke J. Proposal for classification of the suprascapular notch: a study on 423 dried scapulas. Clin Anat. 2007;20:135–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  129. Wang HJ, Chen C, Wu LP, Pan CQ, Zhang WJ, Li YK. Variable morphology of the suprascapular notch: an investigation and quantitative measurements in Chinese population. Clin Anat. 2011;24:47–55.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  130. Grundlagen M. Moglichkeiten und grenzen der sonographie osteofibroser kanale im schulterbereich teil 1. Ann Anat. 1997;179:355–73.

    Google Scholar 

  131. Ajmani ML. The cutaneous branch of the human suprascapular nerve. J Anat. 1994;185:439–42.

    PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  132. Harbaugh KS, Swenson R, Saunders RL. Shoulder numbness in a patient with suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome: cutaneous branch of the suprascapular nerve: case report. Neurosurgery. 2000;47:1452–5.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  133. Vastamäki M, Göransson H. Suprascapular nerve entrapment. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1993;297:135–43.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  134. Ludig T, Walter F, Chapuis D, Molé D, Roland J, Blum A. MR imaging evaluation of suprascapular nerve entrapment. Eur Radiol. 2001;11:2161–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  135. Flatow EL, Bigliani LU, April EW. An anatomic study of the musculocutaneous nerve and its relationship to the coracoid process. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1989;244:166–71.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  136. Linell EA. The distribution of nerves in the upper limb, with reference to variabilities and their clinical significance. J Anat. 1921;55:79–112.

    CAS  PubMed Central  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  137. Bach BR, O’Brien SJ, Warren RF, Leighton M. An unusual neurological complication of the Bristow procedure. A case report. J Bone Joint Surg. 1988;70A:458–60.

    Google Scholar 

  138. Macchi V, Tiengo C, Porzionato A, Parenti A, Stecco C, Bassetto F, et al. Musculocutaneous nerve: histotopographic study and clinical implications. Clin Anat. 2007;20:400–6.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  139. Uysal II, Karabulut AK, Büyükmumcu M, UnverDogan N, Salbacak A. The course and variations of the branches of the musculocutaneous nerve in human fetuses. Clin Anat. 2009;22:337–45.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  140. Krishnamurthy A, Nayak SR, Venkatraya Prabhu L, Hegde RP, Surendran S, Kumar M, et al. The branching pattern and communications of the musculocutaneous nerve. J Hand Surg Eur Vol. 2007;32:560–2.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  141. Prasada Rao PV, Chaudhary SC. Communication of the musculocutaneous nerve with the median nerve. East Afr Med J. 2000;77:498–503.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  142. Guerri-Guttenberg RA, Ingolotti M. Classifying musculocutaneous nerve variations. Clin Anat. 2009;22:671–83.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  143. Choi D, Rodríguez-Niedenführ M, Vázquez T, Parkin I, Sañudo JR. Patterns of connections between the musculocutaneous and median nerves in the axilla and arm. Clin Anat. 2002;15:11–7.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  144. Buch-Hansen K. Variations of the median nerve and the musculocutaneous nerve and their connections. Anat Anz. 1955;102:187–203.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  145. Prasada Rao PV, Chaudhary SC. Absence of musculocutaneous nerve: two case reports. Clin Anat. 2001;14:31–5.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  146. Loukas M, Aqueelah H. Musculocutaneous and median nerve connections within, proximal and distal to the coracobrachialis muscle. Folia Morphol. 2005;64:101–8.

    Google Scholar 

  147. Venieratos D, Anagnostopoulou S. Classification of communications between the musculocutaneous and median nerves. Clin Anat. 1998;11:327–31.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  148. Laing PG. The arterial supply of the adult humerus. J Bone Joint Surg. 1956;38A:1105–16.

    Google Scholar 

  149. Gerber C, Schneeberger AG, Vinh TS. The arterial vascularization of the humeral head. An anatomical study. J Bone Joint Surg. 1990;72A:1486–94.

    Google Scholar 

  150. Brooks CH, Revell WJ, Heatley FW. Vascularity of the humeral head after proximal humeral fractures. An anatomical cadaver study. J Bone Joint Surg. 1993;75B:132–6.

    Google Scholar 

  151. Hertel R. Fractures of the proximal humerus in osteoporotic bone. Osteoporos Int. 2005;16:65–72.

    Google Scholar 

  152. Duparc F, Muller JM, Fréger P. Arterial blood supply of the proximal humeral epiphysis. Surg Radiol Anat. 2001;23:185–90.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Enrico Bellato MD .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2014 Springer-Verlag London

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

Bellato, E., Blonna, D., Castoldi, F. (2014). Anatomy of the Shoulder. In: Milano, G., Grasso, A. (eds) Shoulder Arthroscopy. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-5427-3_1

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-5427-3_1

  • Published:

  • Publisher Name: Springer, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4471-5426-6

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4471-5427-3

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

Publish with us

Policies and ethics