The function of the clavicle on scapular motion: A cadaveric study

Noboru Matsumura, Noriaki Nakamichi, Hiroyasu Ikegami, Takeo Nagura, Nobuaki Imanishi, Sadakazu Aiso, Yoshiaki Toyama

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Hypothesis: The clavicle serves as a strut between the thorax and scapula, and lack of this function could affect shoulder mobility. We hypothesized that clavicular discontinuity changes shoulder kinematics, particularly affecting scapular motion. Materials and methods: The study used 14 cadaveric shoulders. Cadavers were stabilized in the sitting position. Manual elevation in the sagittal, scapular, and coronal planes was performed in the intact and clavicular discontinuity models. The thorax-scapula distance and 3-dimensional scapular motion during shoulder elevation were recorded using an electromagnetic tracking device. The differences between the 2 experimental models at each position were analyzed. Results: Clavicular discontinuity resulted in a decreased thorax-scapula distance and in reduced external rotation, upward rotation, and posterior tilting of the scapula. The kinematic changes were observed during elevations in all 3 planes but were greatest in the sagittal plane compared with the scapular and coronal planes. Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that discontinuity of the clavicle affects shoulder kinematics. Because of its anatomic shape and position, the clavicle stabilizes the external, upward, and posterior rotation of the scapula during arm movement. This function of the clavicle may assist glenohumeral joint motion and help prevent subacromial impingement.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)333-339
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
Volume22
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2013 Mar 1
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Basic science study
  • Biomechanics
  • Cadaver Model
  • Clavicle fracture
  • Clavicular function
  • Clavicular nonunion
  • Electromagnetic tracking device
  • Scapular kinematics
  • Scapular motion
  • Shoulder kinematics
  • Shoulder motion

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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