The Anatomical Structure And Location Of The Scapula's Supraglenoid Tubercle

Description

Arising from the superior rim of the glenoid cavity, the supraglenoid tubercle sits at the lateral angle of the scapula, just superior to the articular surface that receives the humeral head. The animation tracks this bony prominence in relation to the glenoid fossa, scapular neck, and adjacent suprascapular notch, keeping the tubercle oriented superiorly as the scapular blade (infraspinous and subscapular fossae) rotates into and out of view. As the perspective shifts, the coracoid process appears anterosuperior to the glenoid, while the acromion remains more posterior and superior, framing the lateral scapular architecture. Depth cues make the tubercle read as a discrete cortical rise rather than a vague ridge. Small, but unmistakable. Clinically, the supraglenoid tubercle matters because it anchors the proximal tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii and blends with the superior glenoid labrum, a relationship at the center of many SLAP lesions and biceps-labral complex pathology. Following the structure through motion helps clarify why traction or peel-back mechanisms during overhead activity can stress the superior labrum at its bony origin, and why arthroscopic landmarks can be confusing when the scapula is rotated relative to the camera. The sequence also supports teaching the difference between supraglenoid and infraglenoid tubercles, a common early anatomy mix-up with real consequences in procedural communication. Use this animation in shoulder anatomy blocks for gross anatomy, kinesiology, and sports medicine courses, or as a figure asset in chapters on biceps tendinopathy, SLAP repair, and arthroscopic orientation of the superior glenoid. It also fits radiology teaching files when correlating osseous landmarks on CT or 3D reconstructions with labral and biceps anchor pathology. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.