Posterior Surface Of The Scapula In Lateral View

Description

Rotating in a lateral perspective, the posterior (dorsal) scapula fills the frame with the spine of the scapula sweeping posterolaterally to expand into the acromion. Superior to the spine, the supraspinous fossa is shown as a shallow depression that faces posterolaterally toward the supraspinatus muscle belly, while the broader infraspinous fossa lies inferior and slightly medial, separated cleanly by the bony ridge. Along the lateral angle, the animation brings the glenoid region into profile, clarifying how the scapular body thins medially toward the vertebral (medial) border and thickens laterally toward the neck. Landmarks stay readable as the bone turns. For shoulder mechanics, orientation is everything. Seeing the posterior scapular spine and its relationship to the acromion helps explain why scapular dyskinesis alters subacromial clearance and can contribute to rotator cuff impingement and supraspinatus tendinopathy. The animated rotation also clarifies palpation and imaging landmarks, including how the scapular spine and fossae guide probe placement for ultrasound assessment of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus, and how the lateral view relates to the scapular Y configuration used in trauma radiography for glenohumeral dislocation. Use this sequence in gross anatomy and musculoskeletal courses to teach surface anatomy of the shoulder blade, and in radiology or sports medicine materials that need a clean bony reference for rotator cuff pathology and scapular fracture patterns. It also fits surgical education content on posterior approaches to the shoulder, where the scapular spine and acromion guide exposure and safe dissection planes. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.