Review of the pathology and congenital anomalies of the coracoid process with clinical applications

Scapular foramina - a systematic review with meta-analysis based on 3316 scapulae

PURPOSE

In the present study, we want to systematize the previous studies on the scapular foramina (SF) and nutrient foramina (NF) with emphasis on the clinical relevance of this topic. Although seemingly not important, radiologists, clinicians and surgeons should be aware of the presence and characteristics of the SF and NF and look out for possible mistakes that may cause harm to the patients during either the diagnostic process or surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. The whole process was divided into three stages. In the first stage, the following search terms were used: ((scapular foramina) or (scapular foramen) or (scapular nutrient foramina) or (scapular nutrient foramen) or (scapula foramen) or (scapula foramina) or (scapula nutrient foramina)).

RESULTS

The results of the present meta-analysis were based on a total of 3316 studied scapulae. A pooled prevalence of scapulae in which at least one SF was found was set to be 11.29%. The most common localization of the SF was found to be the infraspinous fossa, in which the SF occurred with the prevalence of 52.31%. Subsequently, a pooled prevalence of scapulae in which at least one NF occurs was established at 74.23%.

CONCLUSION

The presented data contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence, distribution, and characteristics of suprascapular and nutrient foramina in scapulae, considering different topographical areas, genders, and sides.

The co-occurrence of a four-headed coracobrachialis muscle, split coracoid process and tunnel for the median and musculocutaneous nerves: the potential clinical relevance of a very rare variation

The coracobrachialis muscle (CBM) originates from the apex of the coracoid process, in common with the short head of the biceps brachii muscle, and from the intermuscular septum. Both the proximal and distal attachment of the CBM, as well as its relationship with the musculocutaneus nerve demonstrate morphological variability, some of which can lead to many diseases. The present case study presents a new description of a complex origin type (four-headed CBM), as well as the fusion of both the short biceps brachii head, brachialis muscle and medial head of the triceps brachii. In addition, the first and second heads formed a tunnel for the musculocutaneus and median nerves. This case report has clear clinical value due to the split mature of the coracoid process, and is a significant indicator of the development of interest in this overlooked muscle.