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Indian Journal of Anatomy

Volume  7, Issue 5, Sep-Oct 2018, Pages 553-559
 

Original Article

Ossification of Superior Transverse Scapular Ligament in an Indian Population

Dope Santoshkumar Ankushrao1, Shivaji B. Sukre2, Archana Kalyankar3

1 Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Latur, Maharashtra 413512, India. 2 Professor and Head 3 Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001, India.

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ija.2320.0022.7518.16

Abstract

The scapula is a flat bone, situated on the posterolateral aspect of the chest wall. Its superior border is thin and extends between superior and lateral angles. It presents suprascapular notch which is converted into a foramen called suprascapular foramen by superior transverse scapular ligament [STSL] [suprascapular ligament; a fibrous band]. The suprascapular vessels pass above STSL and suprascapular nerve passes below it, through the suprascapular foramen. Complete ossification of STSL converts suprascapular foramen into bony foramen & Suprascapular nerve is commonly entrapped in it.

Aims: Aim of this study is to calculate & compare the incidence with other studies of the ossified superior transverse scapular ligament [STSL] in dry scapulae and to discuss its clinical significance.

Materials and Methods: Ninty seven dried human scapulae of Indian population of Marathwada region of Maharashtra, 67 of male and 30 of female i.e. of known sex from the Anatomy Department of Government Medical College, Aurangabad were closely examined for the presence of ossified superior transverse scapular ligament.

Results: It was found that complete ossification of STSL was 12 out of 97 scapulae of which 11 were males and one was female. 12.37% scapulae of known sex had completely ossified STSL, including nine scapulae of right side and three scapulae of left side.

Conclusions: The present study showed 12.37% incidence of ossified STSL in Maharashtrian [Indian] population. Incidence of ossification of STSL varies in different populations. It may be influenced by mechanical stress on ligament, age, sex & genetic factors. The knowledge of STSL ossification may be helpful for anatomists, orthopedicians, radiologists, neurosurgeons & clinicians in diagnosis and treatment of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome.


 


Keywords : Superior Transverse Scapular Ligament [STSL]; Ossification; Suprascapular Notch; Suprascapular Foramen; Suprascapular Nerve.
Corresponding Author : Dope Santoshkumar Ankushrao, Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Latur, Maharashtra 413512, India.