Abstract :
The Suprascapular notch is situated in the lateral part of the superior border
of the scapula, just adjacent to the base of Coracoid process. The notch is
bridged by the superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL) which some
time ossifies and is attached laterally to the root of the coracoid process and
medially to the limit of the notch. Anumber of variations occur in the shape
of suprascapular notch, from a discrete notch to "J" shaped, "V" shaped,
"U" shaped or "O" shaped (i.e. as a complete foramen).
To study morphological and morphometric variations of suprascapular
notch of Indian population.
We studied 140 dried scapula bone and measurements of SSN were done
using digital vernier calipers. We used the Rengachary classification for this study. The following measurements were
The superior transverse diameter - maximum distance between superior most edges of suprascapular notch (SSN).
The inferior transverse diameter - maximum distance between the edges of the curved arch at the base of the SSN. The
results of our study were: J-shaped -28%, U-shaped-26%, V-shaped -15%, Partial-ossification-7%, Indentation-10%,
Absent-9%, Complete ossification- 2%. Type IV supra scapular notch was found to be the most prevalent type
amongst all shapes. We also found that the characteristics of the scapula (dimensions) are related to the characteristics
of the supra scapular notch (type and dimensions) and there is a distinct difference between right and left side scapula
Keyword :
Supra scapular notch, Scapula, Superior transverse diameter, Vertical diameter, Supra scapular ligament.