Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 16, 2026

Clinical Efficacy of Ultrasound-Assisted Scoliosis-Specific Exercise in Mild-Grade Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Published on: December 2, 2025
Association between thoracic kyphosis and sternoclavicular and scapulothoracic alignment: a cross-sectional
Suat Kamil Süt1, Yusuf Jamil2, Sinem Nur Sever
1Department of Radiology, Sincan Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Türkiye.
Purpose:
To evaluate the cross-sectional association between thoracic kyphosis and static shoulder-girdle alignment on opportunistic thoracic computed tomography (CT), with particular emphasis on scapular orientation and anterior sternoclavicular (SC) joint positioning.
Methods:
This single-centre retrospective study included 215 adults undergoing thoracic CT between January 2025 and February 2026. Upper (T1-T5), lower (T5-T12), and measured total (T1-T12) thoracic kyphosis were assessed alongside scapular, clavicular, and SC joint parameters. Associations were examined using Spearman correlation, multivariable linear regression, and parsimonious logistic regression. Inter-rater reliability was assessed in 30 examinations.
Results:
Mean age was 52.5 ± 15.8 years, and 27 patients (12.6%) demonstrated anterior SC positioning. Greater total T1-T12 kyphosis correlated with smaller bilateral mean scapular plane angle (r = - 0.291, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, both T1-T5 (β = -0.267, p < 0.001) and T5-T12 kyphosis (β = -0.130, p = 0.024) were independently associated with smaller scapular plane angles. T1-T5 kyphosis was independently associated with anterior SC positioning (OR 1.080 per degree, 95% CI 1.021-1.141; p = 0.007), while total T1-T12 kyphosis was also associated (OR 1.043, 95% CI 1.002-1.086; p = 0.040). Inter-rater reliability was excellent (ICC 0.962-0.999).
Conclusion:
Greater thoracic kyphosis on supine thoracic CT was associated with altered static shoulder-girdle alignment, particularly greater scapular protraction and anterior SC positioning. Upper thoracic curvature showed the most consistent association with anterior SC position. These findings highlight the potential value of thoracic CT for characterizing clinically relevant shoulder-girdle alignment patterns and provide a foundation for future prospective and functional studies.
Related Concept Videos
The Thoracic Cage: Sternum
The sternum is the elongated bony structure on the anterior side of the thoracic cage. It consists of three parts: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process.
The Thoracic Cage: Ribs
Parts of a Typical Rib
A typical rib has a head, neck, and body. The posterior end of the rib is called the head, followed by a narrow neck. The head articulates primarily with the costal facet...
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Pressure Relationships in Thoracic Cavity
Breathing Mechanisms
Both intra-alveolar and intrapleural pressures rely on specific lung properties. The ability to breathe—allowing air to enter the lungs during...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
