Suprascapular Artery in a Male Specimen, Posterior View

Description

Posterior shoulder anatomy is rendered with the scapula centered, the spine of the scapula running transversely toward the acromion, and the proximal humerus positioned lateral to the glenoid. The suprascapular artery courses from the cervical region toward the superior border of the scapula, passing in close relationship to the suprascapular notch and then tracking posteriorly into the supraspinous fossa before continuing around the lateral scapular margin toward the infraspinous fossa. Portions of the subclavian and axillary vessels are shown proximal and anterior to this field, with partial ribs forming a thoracic backdrop and rotator cuff muscle masses framing the vascular path. Posterior visualization of the suprascapular artery matters because its trajectory over the superior transverse scapular ligament contrasts with the suprascapular nerve’s more vulnerable route through the notch, a distinction that underpins suprascapular entrapment syndromes and safe dissection in the suprascapular region. This view also supports surgical planning for approaches to the supraspinatus and infraspinatus fossae, where bleeding risk increases during arthroscopic portal placement, open rotator cuff repair, or scapular fracture exposure near the spinoglenoid region. Small branches to the rotator cuff and periosteum can be appreciated as they fan across the dorsal scapula. Orthopedic and sports medicine educators can use this plate to teach rotator cuff vascular supply, suprascapular notch anatomy, and regional variations relevant to nerve decompression. It also fits atlases and journal figures discussing posterior shoulder approaches, suprascapular neuropathy, and vascular considerations during shoulder arthroscopy, embolization planning, or trauma surgery documentation. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.