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Measuring 3D In-vivo Shoulder Kinematics using Biplanar Videoradiography
Published on: March 12, 2021
An anatomical study of the subcoracoid space
Arnaldo Amado Ferreira Neto1, Adriano Marques de Almeida, Renzo Maiorino
1Shoulder and Elbow Group and Arthroscopy, Laboratory of Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. aafneto@terra.com.br
Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
|October 31, 2006
Summary
Women may experience more shoulder impingement due to a smaller subcoracoid space. This study measured distances between the coracoid process and key anatomical structures in cadavers.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- The subcoracoid space is critical for shoulder function.
- Understanding its dimensions is essential for diagnosing and treating impingement syndromes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the subcoracoid space dimensions.
- To assess distances between the coracoid process apex and the musculocutaneous nerve, acromial artery, and lesser humeral tubercle.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 30 fresh human cadaver shoulders (9 male, 6 female).
- Measurement of distances between the coracoid process apex and specified anatomical landmarks.
Main Results:
- Mean distance to musculocutaneous nerve: 49.2 mm; to acromial artery: 12.4 mm.
- Mean distance to lesser tubercle (internal rotation): 10.6 mm (males) vs. 8.6 mm (females).
- Significant sex-based difference in distance to the lesser tubercle.
Conclusions:
- Women exhibit a smaller distance between the coracoid process and lesser tubercle during internal rotation.
- This anatomical variation may increase impingement risk in females.
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