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Coracoid Process / CA Ligament


Anatomy:

  • coracoid process can be palpated thru anterior deltoid muscle one to two finger breadths below outer portion of clavicle;
  • one finger breadth lateral to coracoid is the GHJ;
  • provides a palpable guide to deltopectoral groove;
  • serves as an anchor for coracoid muscles (coracobrachialis & short head of biceps) that separate lateral safe side from medial side where brachial plexus and vessels lie;
  • clavipectoral fascia covers the floor of deltopectoral groove and is identified by rotating humerus;
    • this allows subscapularis to be identified beneath fascial layer;

Role of CA Ligament:

  • attaches to front and undersurface of acromion as a thick band and continues around anterolateral corner to attach to lateral ridge for a variable distance.
  • anteriorly, the coracoacromial ligament attaches to the anterior inferior edge of the acromion, while the deltoid fascia attaches more superiorly;
  • up to 15 mm of motion may occur between the acromion and the coracoid, when subjected to a 30 kg distractive force;