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Enigma of scapular foramen and tunnels: an untold story

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Abstract

Purpose

The study was undertaken to make a qualitative and quantitative assessment of unnamed foramen and tunnels in adult human scapulae with aid of plain and contrast radiographs.

Materials and methods

A total of 120 dry bones, 60 each of the right and the left side were included in the study. Distribution of these foramina and tunnels was noted for their number, side, location, course and communication. Their morphometry was done using Vernier’s caliper.

Results

Incidence of scapular foramina was 7.5% (R > L), whereas scapular tunnels were seen in 15.8% cases. Incidence of the sinuous, curved, and straight tunnels was found to be 50, 39, and 10.7% respectively. Left-sided tunnels were longer than the right ones. Plain and contrast radiographs were taken to confirm the findings.

Conclusion

Anatomy literature describes only two scapular foramina, namely, nutrient foramen and suprascapular foramen/notch in a great zeal; occurrence of such anonymous foramina is hardly discussed. Through this study, there is an endeavor towards unfolding the mystery of scapular foramina in terms of their morphometry and distribution, the knowledge of which will aid clinicians, forensic experts, and surgeons in better diagnosis and management of clinical cases.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anatomy, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, 110029, India

    Nidhi Singh, Puja Chauhan, Hitendra Kumar Loh, Mangala Kohli & Rajesh Kumar Suri

Authors
  1. Nidhi Singh
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  2. Puja Chauhan
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  3. Hitendra Kumar Loh
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  4. Mangala Kohli
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  5. Rajesh Kumar Suri
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Hitendra Kumar Loh.

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The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Singh, N., Chauhan, P., Loh, H.K. et al. Enigma of scapular foramen and tunnels: an untold story. Surg Radiol Anat 40, 327–332 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-017-1931-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-017-1931-y

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