Collarbone

Collarbone

The collarbone, also known as the clavicle, is a long bone that serves as a strut between the shoulder blade and the sternum. It is a prominent bone that can be easily felt in the human body and plays a crucial role in the skeletal system.

Anatomy

The clavicle is an S-shaped bone that is located horizontally across the front of the thorax. It is divided into three main parts:

• The medial end (sternal end) articulates with the manubrium of the sternum at the sternoclavicular joint.
• The shaft is the central part of the clavicle, which is slightly curved and acts as a support for the shoulder.
• The lateral end (acromial end) articulates with the acromion of the scapula at the acromioclavicular joint.

Function

The clavicle serves several important functions:

• It acts as a support for the shoulder, allowing for a wide range of motion in the arm.
• It protects the neurovascular bundle that supplies the upper limb.
• It transmits physical impacts from the upper limb to the axial skeleton.

Clinical Significance

Fractures

Clavicle fractures are common, especially in children and athletes. They typically occur due to a fall on the shoulder or an outstretched hand. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a visible deformity over the fracture site. Treatment may involve immobilization with a sling or surgical intervention in severe cases.

Congenital Disorders

Conditions such as cleidocranial dysostosis can affect the development of the clavicle, leading to abnormalities in its shape and function.

Related Structures

The clavicle is closely associated with several other anatomical structures, including:

• The brachial plexus, a network of nerves that supplies the arm.
• The subclavian artery and vein, which pass beneath the clavicle.
• The pectoralis major and deltoid muscles, which attach to the clavicle.

See Also

• Skeletal system
• Shoulder joint
• Bone fracture

References

• Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice.
• Netter's Atlas of Human Anatomy.