Suprascapular Nerve, Gross Anatomy

Description

Arising from the superior trunk of the brachial plexus (C5 to C6), the suprascapular nerve courses laterally across the posterior cervical triangle toward the superior border of the scapula. Near the suprascapular notch it passes deep to the transverse scapular ligament, with the suprascapular artery typically running superior to the ligament, then enters the supraspinous fossa to supply supraspinatus before turning around the lateral edge of the scapular spine toward the infraspinous fossa. Bony landmarks expected in this field include the clavicle, acromion, scapular spine, and the costal framework of the upper thorax as background reference. Small, easily missed anatomy. That tight tunnel at the suprascapular notch is a common entrapment site, and this view is the one you want when explaining why patients present with deep posterolateral shoulder pain and weakness in abduction and external rotation. Denervation changes in supraspinatus and infraspinatus on MRI, or isolated infraspinatus wasting with a more distal compression at the spinoglenoid notch, make more sense when you can track the nerve’s proximal course under the ligament and its turn around the scapula. It also supports operative planning for arthroscopic suprascapular nerve release, where orientation to the ligament, notch, and nearby suprascapular vessels prevents iatrogenic bleeding. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and regional upper limb teaching to anchor brachial plexus branches to palpable scapular landmarks, and in orthopedic or sports medicine texts covering suprascapular neuropathy in overhead athletes and rotator cuff pathology. It also fits patient education materials when discussing nerve block targets and postoperative weakness patterns after shoulder surgery. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.