Contents
Image: clavicle (Linkmap)
Clavicle
The clavicle is the collarbone, which connects the sternum to the acromion of the scapula and, when the arm is raised high, transfers part of a lifted load to the sternum and thus to the entire thorax. This makes it the only bony connection of the scapula to the thorax equipped with real joints in the otherwise purely muscular scapula, which does not form a real joint on the thorax with the scapulothoracic gliding bearing. In standard anatomical position, the clavicle is largely horizontal and is easy to palpate.
The deltoid pars clavicularis arises ventrally from the clavicle, whereas the trapezius attaches dorsally. On the inferior side of the lateral third, the conoid ligament attaches to the conoid tuberosity and the trapezoid ligament to the trapezoid line.
Tuberculum conoideum
Insertion area of the conoid ligament on the inferior side of the lateral third of the clavicle.
Linea trapezoidea
Insertion area of the trapezoid ligament on the inferior side of the lateral third of the clavicle.
The medial two thirds can be divided into three surfaces by the three edges margo superior, margo anterior and margo posterior: Facies anterior, Facies posterior and Facies inferior.
Facies anterior
The anterior facies lies between the superior margo and the anterior margo, where the platysma attaches. Fibers of the pectoralis major originate at the lower end and the sternocleidomastoid at the upper end.
Posterior facies
The posterior facies lies between the superior and posterior margo. Fibers of the sternohyoid originate here close to the sternum.
Facies inferior
The inferior facies lies between the posterior and anterior margo. Here the costoclavicular ligament attaches medially to the costal tuberosity. The rest of the surface is a bone depression from which the subclavian arises.
Joints
- Acromioclavicular joint: joint with the acromion of the scapula
- Sternoclavicular joint: joint with the manubrium of the sternum
Images
Clavicle in context
Muscle loops that move the distal end of the clavicle
