Suprascapular notch

Updated on Oct 06, 2024

Edit

Comment

Latin Incisura scapulae TA A02.4.01.015		Dorlands /Elsevier i_05/12447497 FMA 23236

The suprascapular notch (or scapular notch) is a notch in the superior border of the scapula, just medial to the base of the coracoid process.

This notch is converted into a foramen by the superior transverse scapular ligament, and serves for the passage of the suprascapular nerve (but not its corresponding artery); sometimes the ligament is ossified. The suprascapular artery travels superiorly to the superior transverse ligament.

According to Rengachary et al. 1979, there are six basic types of scapular notch:

Type I (8%): Notch is absent. The superior border forms a wide depression from the medial angle to the coracoid process.

Type II (31%): Notch is a blunted V-shape occupying the middle third of the superior border.

Type III (48%): Notch is U-shaped with nearly parallel margins.

Type IV (3%): Notch is V-shaped and very small. A shallow groove is frequently formed for the suprascapular nerve adjacent to the notch.

Type V (6%): Notch is minimal and U-shaped with a partially ossified ligament.

Type VI (4%): Notch is a foramen as the ligament is completely ossified.

References

Suprascapular notch Wikipedia

(Text) CC BY-SA