Bone Spurs on the Humerus, Anterior View

Description

Presented from an anterior perspective, the proximal humerus is shown with irregular osteophytes along the humeral head margin and extending toward the greater and lesser tubercles, where the rotator cuff tendons insert. The bicipital (intertubercular) groove lies between the tubercles on the anterior aspect, a useful landmark for orienting the viewer as the spurs project medially and laterally around the articular rim. Periarticular erythema highlights adjacent capsular and synovial irritation around the glenohumeral joint line in this adult male specimen. Bone texture remains trabecular beneath the cortical surface. A metallic resurfacing cap is seated over the humeral head, consistent with partial shoulder arthroplasty. Anterior osteophytes at the proximal humerus matter because they correlate with glenohumeral osteoarthritis and anterior capsular tightness, and they often coexist with subscapularis tendinopathy as the tendon crosses to the lesser tubercle. During a deltopectoral approach for hemiarthroplasty or resurfacing, these spurs can restrict external rotation, complicate exposure of the anatomic neck, and contribute to persistent pain if not addressed, while inflammation around the capsule raises the differential of postoperative synovitis, low-grade infection, or acute flare of degenerative disease. Small findings. Real consequences. Use this artwork for teaching shoulder anatomy and pathology in gross anatomy, orthopedics, or sports medicine modules, and for illustrating journal or textbook content on humeral head resurfacing, osteophyte excision, and anterior shoulder pain mechanics. It also fits patient-facing materials that explain why bone spurs and implants can coexist with ongoing inflammation after joint-preserving surgery. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.