Scapula Anatomy - Key Landmarks

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the major scapular landmarks.

Acromion

The lateral, expanded end of the scapular spine; forms the high point of the shoulder and articulates with the clavicle.

Coracoid process

A hook-like projection on the anterior scapula that serves as an attachment for muscles (e.g., biceps brachii short head, coracobrachialis, pectoralis minor).

Supraglenoid tubercle

A small bump above the glenoid cavity; origin for the long head of the biceps brachii.

Glenoid cavity

The shallow concavity on the lateral scapula that articulates with the head of the humerus.

Suprascapular notch

A notch on the superior border through which the suprascapular nerve passes.

Superior border

The upper edge of the scapula.

Superior angle

The topmost angle of the scapula.

Supraspinous fossa

The concave area on the posterior surface of the scapula above the spine.

Spine (of the scapula)

A prominent ridge on the posterior surface that divides the supraspinous and infraspinous fossae and ends laterally as the acromion.

Infraglenoid tubercle

A projection below the glenoid cavity; origin for the long head of the triceps brachii.

Lateral border

The lateral (axillary) edge of the scapula.

Inferior angle

The bottom angle of the scapula.

Medial border

The vertebral (medial) edge of the scapula.

Subscapular fossa

The broad, shallow depression on the anterior surface of the scapula.

Infraspinous fossa

The broad area on the posterior surface below the spine.