The ligaments of the scapula (fig. 527) are the coraco-acromial, the suprascapular (superior transverse), and the spinoglenoid (inferior transverse).
The coraco-acromial ligament is a strong triangular band, extending between the corticoid process and the acromion. Its apex is attached to the edge of the aeromion just in front of the articular surface for the clavicle; and its base to the whole length of the lateral border of the corticoid process. This ligament, together with the corticoid process and the acromion, forms an arch for the protection of the head of the humerus. It sometimes consists of two strong marginal bands and a thinner intervening portion.
When the pectoralis minor is inserted, as it is occasionally, into the capsule of the shoulder-joint instead of into the corticoid process, the tendon of the muscle passes between the two bands of the coraco-acromial ligament.
The suprascapular (superior transverse) ligament converts the suprascapular notch into a foramen, and is sometimes ossified. It is a thin and flat fasciculus, narrower at the middle than at the extremities, which are attached to the base of the coracoid process and the medial end of the suprascapular notch respectively. The suprascapular nerve runs through the foramen; the suprascapular (transverse scapular) vessels cross over the ligament.
The spinoglenoid (inferior transverse) ligament is a weak, membranous band, stretching from the lateral border of the spine of the scapula to the margin of the glenoid cavity. It forms an arch under which the suprascapular nerve and vessels enter the infraspinous fossa. It is frequently absent.
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