Surgical neck of the humerus

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Anterior view of the humerus showing the surgical neck (labelled as collum chirurgicum)

The Surgical Neck of the Humerus is a constriction located in the humerus, the long bone in the upper arm. It is situated below the tubercles and above the deltoid tuberosity, and is a common site for fractures.

Anatomy

The surgical neck of the humerus is the narrow portion of the bone just distal to the anatomical neck and the greater tubercle and lesser tubercle. It is named the "surgical" neck due to its susceptibility to fractures and the surgical procedures often required to repair them.

Clinical Significance

Fractures

Fractures of the surgical neck of the humerus are common, especially in older individuals due to osteoporosis. These fractures can lead to complications such as axillary nerve damage, which can cause numbness in the arm and shoulder, and rotator cuff injuries.

Treatment

Treatment of fractures at the surgical neck of the humerus typically involves immobilization with a sling or cast, followed by physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength. In severe cases, surgery may be required to realign and stabilize the bone.

See Also

• Humerus
• Fracture
• Osteoporosis