The glenoid cavity: its morphology and clinical significance.

Abstract

Title: The Glenoid Cavity: its morphology and clinical significance. Introduction: Size and shape of the glenoid cavity (GC) is directly related to the dislocation of shoulder joint and may affect the results of total shoulder arthroplasty and rotator cuff surgeries. Hence, we planned this study to note the percentage of normal and variable morphology of the glenoid cavity and discuss its clinical correlation in detail. On reviewing the literature, we came across that though the anatomy of glenoid cavity is described by previous authors but there is lack of correlation between morphometry of glenoid cavity and dislocation at shoulder joint. Methods: A total of 123 dry human scapulae were included in the study. The maximum length and width of the scapula were taken. Shape of the glenoid cavity was observed. Three measurements were defined and collected for every GC: maximal length, maximum width and transverse diameter at the level of glenoid notch. Results: Of the 123 scapula included, 64 belonged to right and 59 to left side. The maximum length and width of the GC was 38.78 � 4.43 and 26.97� 3.79 cm respectively. The width of the GC at the level of glenoid notch was 20.2� 3.80 cm. The maximum length and width of the scapula was 136.43� 13.31 and 99.14� 8.21 cm respectively. Conclusion: These exact measurements of the glenoid cavity will guide the surgeon in selection of appropriate prosthesis during shoulder arthroplasty in order to gain full congruency at shoulder joint