Scapula as, Anterior View

Description

Shown in anterior aspect, the scapula is oriented with the glenoid cavity laterally and the medial (vertebral) border running superior to inferior toward the inferior angle. The costal surface is dominated by the subscapular fossa, bounded by the lateral border leading to the neck of the scapula and the glenoid rim. Superiorly, the coracoid process projects anterolaterally, while the acromion curves laterally to meet the clavicle at the acromioclavicular joint region. Clean landmarks. Anterior scapular anatomy matters because it frames the bony relationships that govern glenohumeral stability and anterior shoulder surgical corridors. The coracoid and its base form the working area for procedures such as the Latarjet coracoid transfer for recurrent anterior instability, and the glenoid margin is the reference for Bankart-type lesions and for planning glenoid bone grafting or component placement in shoulder arthroplasty. On the soft-tissue side, the broad subscapular fossa corresponds to the subscapularis origin, a key tendon encountered and often released in the deltopectoral approach, then repaired during anatomic total shoulder replacement. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and kinesiology teaching to anchor muscle attachments (subscapularis, pectoralis minor on the coracoid, short head of biceps and coracobrachialis at the coracoid apex) and to orient learners to scapular borders and angles before tackling the rotator cuff. It also fits well in orthopedic texts, preoperative patient education, and exam-prep materials that require precise labeling of the glenoid, coracoid, and acromial landmarks. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.