Suprascapular Artery

Description

Centered on the superior border of the scapula, the suprascapular artery courses laterally from the thyrocervical trunk toward the suprascapular notch, crossing superior to the transverse scapular ligament (superior transverse scapular ligament) as it enters the supraspinous fossa. Posteriorly, the clavicle sits anterior and superior to the scapular spine, while the cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae lie medially, framing the route of the vessel toward the lateral shoulder girdle. A red arterial tree and accompanying blue venous channels are carried across the upper back and occipital region, with the rib cage and scapula providing bony context for the artery’s relationship to the shoulder. Surgeons and clinicians care about this segment because the suprascapular notch is a tight osteofibrous gateway where vessels and nerve diverge in their course: the artery typically passes over the ligament while the suprascapular nerve passes under it. That arrangement matters during posterior approaches to the suprascapular notch, arthroscopic or open decompression for suprascapular neuropathy, and when placing anchors or working near the superior glenoid and base of the coracoid, where injury can compromise perfusion to supraspinatus and infraspinatus. Small space. Real consequence. Use this view for teaching scapular region anatomy in gross lab, MSK anatomy, or sports medicine modules, where students must link bony landmarks (scapular spine, suprascapular notch, supraspinous fossa) to neurovascular corridors. It also fits operative atlases, shoulder arthroscopy chapters, and patient education graphics explaining suprascapular nerve entrapment or vascular risk during superior shoulder procedures. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.