Acromial Facet Of The Clavicle, Inferior View

Description

Clavicula, lateral (acromial) extremity, is presented from an inferior perspective, centering on the acromial facet that articulates with the acromion of the scapula to form the acromioclavicular joint. The joint surface lies at the distal end, while the inferior surface immediately medial to it transitions into the roughened attachment area for the coracoclavicular ligament complex. Medial and slightly posterior to the facet, the conoid tubercle is suggested as a prominent landmark, with the trapezoid line extending anterolaterally toward the distal clavicle. Orientation is unambiguous. Distal clavicular anatomy matters because stability at the acromioclavicular joint depends less on the small articular facet and more on the surrounding capsuloligamentous restraints, especially the conoid and trapezoid components of the coracoclavicular ligament inserting on the inferior clavicle. This relationship explains the typical displacement patterns in Rockwood-type AC separations, where apparent joint widening reflects ligament failure rather than a primary cartilage problem, and it guides surgical reconstruction tunnels or suture-button placement relative to the conoid tubercle and trapezoid line. The inferior viewpoint supports teaching and preoperative planning by prioritizing the underside topography that surgeons palpate and reference when approaching the distal clavicle and coracoclavicular interval. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and orthopaedic modules on the shoulder girdle, in radiology teaching that correlates distal clavicle landmarks with CT or fluoroscopic projections, and in operative technique manuals discussing acromioclavicular stabilization or distal clavicle excision. It also fits patient-education materials explaining why ligament injury, not just bone shape, drives acromioclavicular joint instability. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.