The inferior transverse scapular ligament in Thais.

ABSTRACT

Eighty-four shoulders of cadavers were dissected to determine the prevalence of the inferior transverse scapular (Spinoglenoid) ligament. Three types of the structures, forming an arch above the suprascapular nerve ad vessels at spinoglenoid notch, were classified in this study. Type I, the inferior transverse scapular fascia, was found in 45 cases (53.6 percent). Type II, the inferior transverse scapular membrane, was present in 30 cases (35.7 percent). This membrane was formed by bands of fascia distinct from the surrounding tissues. Type III, the inferior transverse scapular ligament, was present in 9 cases (10.7 percent). The ligament extended from the lateral border of the spine of the scapula to the margin of the glenoid cavity. Type I was the most common and type III was the least. Type I and type Ii were not true ligament. The study can serve as a reference to the inferior transverse scapular ligament in Thai and remind the neurologist or neurosurgeon that suprascapular nerve compression may result from lesions of the inferior transverse scapular ligament.