Morphometric study of suprascapular notch and scapular dimensions with their clinical implications

The anatomical variations in the shape of suprascapular notch, and its transformation into a foramen by complete or partial ossification of the superior transverse scapular ligament, are well-known reasons of suprascapular nerve entrapment. So, the objective of this study is to measure various dimensions of suprascapular notch, glenoid cavity and scapula. The study was conducted on 60 dry scapulae of unknown sex. Width and length of scapula and glenoid cavity was measured. Width and depth of suprascapular notch was also measured. Glenoid cavity and suprascapular notch various shapes were also noted down. Distance of suprascapular notch from the supraglenoid tubercle and spinoglenoid notch was also noted down. Statistical analysis for all the parameter was done by using SPSS software. The mean length, width of scapula and glenoid cavity is 13.79, 9.40 and 3.78, 2.48cm respectively. The most common shape of glenoid cavity is pear shaped in 61.66% of cases. The width and depth of suprascapular notch is 0.88 and 0.67cm. The mean distance from supraglenoid tubercle and spinoglenoid notch to suprascapular notch is 2.96 and 2.11cm. Most common shape of supracsapular notch seen is U shape which was seen in 35% of cases. The measurements and shape of the glenoid cavity which were noted in this study will be useful for orthopaedic surgeons to select appropriate dimensions of the glenoid component for the shoulder replacement surgeries. The result of this study will also help the clinician in dealing with patients with suprascapular nerve entrapment.