Variations of Morphology of Glenoid Cavity in Thais

Abstract

Background and objective: The glenoid cavity of the scapula forms the gleno-humeral joint along with the head of the humerus.  The morphology of the glenoid cavity has been studied in various races. These shallow depressions are variants in shape and are considered to be important during open surgery around the shoulder region. The aims of the present study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of various shape of the glenoid cavity in Thais.

Methods: A total of 138 (104 males and 34 females) dry human scapulae were examined. The shape of each glenoid cavity was investigated, photographed and recorded. 

Results:  Four types of the shape of glenoid cavity were classified according to the glenoid notch along the anterior margin of the cavity.  Type 1 Inverted comma shaped with a well defined notch along the anterior border (21.01%). Type 2 Pear shaped with a less evident notch along the anterior border (60.14%). Type 3 Pear shaped without indentation (1.45%).  Type 4 Oval shaped (17.40%).

Conclusions:  The present study provides the first information of the shape of glenoid cavity in Thais.  The most common was pear shaped type while the least common was the oval shape.