Clavicle
- The clavicle is an S-shaped long bone connecting the sternum to the scapula.
- It transmits forces from the upper limb to the axial skeleton.
- Its medial two-thirds curve anteriorly, while its lateral third curves posteriorly.
- The medial end joins the manubrium and first costal cartilage at the sternoclavicular joint.
- The lateral end joins the acromion at the acromioclavicular joint.
- The inferior surface contains the conoid tubercle and trapezoid line for the coracoclavicular ligament.
- The subclavian groove anchors subclavius, and an inferior impression anchors the costoclavicular ligament.
- Inferior clavicle landmarks are roughened areas where soft tissues attach; the conoid tubercle and trapezoid line anchor the coracoclavicular ligament, the subclavian groove anchors subclavius, and the costoclavicular impression anchors the ligament from the first rib.
- The clavicle is subcutaneous along most of its length and commonly fractures near the junction of its middle and lateral thirds.
- Subcutaneous means just under the skin, so clavicle fractures are often easy to feel; the middle-lateral junction is a weak transition point between the two main curves of the bone.
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