Lateral angle of the scapula

Bone: Lateral angle of the scapula
Left scapula. Dorsal surface. (Lateral angle labeled, upside down, at upper left.)
Latin	angulus lateralis scapulae
Gray's	subject #50 207

The lateral angle of the scapula (head of the scapula) is the thickest part of the bone.

On it is a shallow pyriform, articular surface, the glenoid cavity, which is directed lateralward and forward and articulates with the head of the humerus; it is broader below than above and its vertical diameter is the longest.

The surface is covered with cartilage in the fresh state; and its margins, slightly raised, give attachment to a fibrocartilaginous structure, the glenoidal labrum, which deepens the cavity.

At its apex is a slight elevation, the supraglenoid tuberosity, to which the long head of the Biceps brachii is attached.

The neck of the scapula is the slightly constricted portion which surrounds the head; it is more distinct below and behind than above and in front.

External links

• lesson1bonesofpostshoulder at The Anatomy Lesson by Wesley Norman (Georgetown University)

This article was originally based on an entry from a public domain edition of Gray's Anatomy. As such, some of the information contained within it may be outdated.