Infraspinatous fossa

Infraspinatous Fossa

The Infraspinatous Fossa is a significant anatomical feature of the scapula, or shoulder blade, in the human body. It is a concave surface located on the dorsal aspect of the scapula, below the spine of the scapula.

Etymology

The term "Infraspinatous" is derived from the Latin words 'infra', meaning 'below', and 'spina', meaning 'spine'. The term "fossa" is derived from the Latin word for 'ditch' or 'trench'. Thus, the term "Infraspinatous Fossa" can be translated as 'the trench below the spine'.

Anatomy

The Infraspinatous Fossa is bounded by the inferior angle and the lateral border of the scapula. It is covered by the Infraspinatus muscle, which is one of the four muscles of the rotator cuff.

The fossa is marked by a prominent line, which runs from the upper part of the fossa, near the vertebral border, towards the axillary border. This line serves as the attachment for a fibrous septum, which separates the Infraspinatus muscle from the Teres major and Teres minor muscles.

Clinical Significance

The Infraspinatous Fossa is clinically significant as it can be affected by various conditions such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, and frozen shoulder. These conditions can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Related Terms

• Scapula
• Infraspinatus muscle
• Rotator cuff
• Teres major muscle
• Teres minor muscle

Infraspinatous fossa Resources
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