Clavicle

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The clavicle, commonly referred to as the collarbone, is a slender, S-shaped bone located in the upper thoracic region and plays a crucial role in the skeletal and muscular anatomy of the shoulder.

Pectoral girdle front diagram

Anatomy and Structure[edit | edit source]

Gerrish's Text-book of Anatomy (1902)

The clavicle is a bilateral bone, meaning that there are two clavicles in the human body, one on each side. It connects the sternum (breastbone) medially to the acromion, a part of the scapula (shoulder blade), laterally. This bone has three primary parts:

Clavicle fracture
  • Medial end or sternal end: Articulates with the manubrium of the sternum at the sternoclavicular joint.
  • Lateral end or acromial end: Connects with the acromion of the scapula at the acromioclavicular joint.
  • Shaft: The elongated body of the clavicle, which has a gentle S-shape.

Function[edit | edit source]

The clavicle serves multiple vital functions in the human body:

  • Support: It provides anterior support for the shoulder, maintaining its lateral position.
  • Protection: It acts as a protective barrier for vital nerves and blood vessels that pass underneath it, including the brachial plexus and subclavian vessels.
  • Muscular attachment: Several muscles, including the deltoid and the trapezius, attach to the clavicle, facilitating various arm movements.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Due to its subcutaneous location (just beneath the skin), the clavicle is vulnerable to injuries. Some key clinical considerations include:

  • Fractures: Clavicle fractures are common, especially from falls onto an outstretched arm or direct impacts to the shoulder.
  • Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear can lead to arthritis in the acromioclavicular or sternoclavicular joints.
  • Congenital anomalies: Rarely, individuals might be born with clavicular anomalies like a missing or abnormally shaped clavicle.
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome: Compression of the neurovascular structures beneath the clavicle can lead to this syndrome, causing pain and weakness in the arm.

Associated Structures[edit | edit source]

  • Scapula: The shoulder blade with which the clavicle articulates laterally.
  • Sternum: The central chest bone connected to the medial end of the clavicle.
  • Acromioclavicular joint: The joint where the clavicle meets the shoulder blade.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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