Clavicle Anatomy and Clinical Relevance

Overview

This lecture covers the anatomy of the clavicle (collarbone), its main bony landmarks, functional roles, and clinical relevance, such as fractures.

Clavicle Basics

• The clavicle, or collarbone, forms part of the pectoral (shoulder) girdle with the scapula.
• It is S-shaped and located at the base of the neck, above the first rib.
• The clavicle connects the upper limb to the trunk, acting as a strut for support and stability.

Bony Landmarks of the Clavicle

• The lateral end is called the acromial end, articulating with the acromion of the scapula (acromioclavicular joint).
• The medial end is the sternal end, articulating with the sternum (sternoclavicular joint).
• The conoid tubercle is a bony prominence on the inferior, lateral third of the clavicle for ligament attachment (conoid ligament).

Functional Importance

• The clavicle is the only bony attachment of the upper limb to the axial skeleton at the sternoclavicular joint.
• It stabilizes the upper limb by keeping the scapula and arm away from the thorax.
• It transmits forces and shocks from the upper limb to the axial skeleton.

Clinical Relevance: Clavicle Fractures

• Clavicular fractures commonly occur between the middle and lateral third of the bone.
• The medial fragment is pulled upward by the sternocleidomastoid muscle; the lateral fragment drops due to loss of support.
• Treatment often involves slings or bandages to stabilize the shoulder during healing.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Clavicle (Collarbone) — S-shaped bone forming part of the shoulder girdle.
• Acromial End — Lateral end of the clavicle articulating with the scapula.
• Sternal End — Medial end of the clavicle articulating with the sternum.
• Conoid Tubercle — A prominence for ligament attachment on the clavicle.
• Acromioclavicular Joint — Joint between the acromion and acromial end.
• Sternoclavicular Joint — Joint between the sternum and sternal end.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review the anatomy diagrams of the clavicle and associated joints.
• Memorize the primary bony landmarks and their functions.
• Be able to explain the mechanism and consequences of clavicle fractures.