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AnatomyUpper limbShoulder and armCoracoid process of scapula
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AnatomyUpper limbShoulder and armCoracoid process of scapula

Coracoid process of scapula

Author: Roberto Grujičić, MD • Reviewer: Dimitrios Mytilinaios, MD, PhD
Last reviewed: October 30, 2023
Reading time: 2 minutes

Recommended video: Scapula [03:24]
Anatomy, bony landmarks and function of the scapula, also known as shoulder blade.
Coracoid process of scapula
Processus coracoideus scapulae
1/5
Synonyms: none

The coracoid process is an osseous projection that projects from the upper margin of the scapula. This process is directed anterolaterally and positioned directly inferior to the lateral aspect of the clavicle. It connects with the clavicle via the coracoclavicular ligament. 

The coracoid process is related to major neurovascular structures such as the brachial plexus, axillary vessels, acromial branch of the thoracoacromial artery, and the sensory branch of the lateral pectoral nerve.

The coracoid process can be palpated through the skin on the lateral aspect of the clavipectoral (deltopectoral) triangle, a depression formed between the clavicle, pectoralis major and deltoid muscle. 

The coracoid process serves as the attachment point for several muscles and ligaments. 

The muscles include the pectoralis minor muscle, coracobrachialis muscle and short head of biceps brachii muscle. The ligaments that attach to the coracoid process include the coracoclavicular ligament, coraco-acromial ligament, coracohumeral ligament and the glenocoracoid ligament.

Terminology English: Coracoid process of scapula
Latin: Processus coracoideus scapulae
Definition Anterolateral projection of the superior border of the scapula
Ligaments Coracoclavicular ligament
Coraco-acromial ligament
Coracohumeral ligament
Glenocoracoid ligament
Muscles Pectoralis minor muscle
Coracobrachialis muscle
Short head of biceps brachii muscle

Learn more about the anatomy of the scapula with the following study unit: 

Humerus and scapula Explore study unit

Sources

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.
  • Drake, R., Vogl, W., Mitchell, A. & Gray, H. (2015). Gray's anatomy for students. Philadelphia, PA: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
  • McKinley, M. & Loughlin, V. (2012). Human anatomy. New York: McGraw-Hill.
  • Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2014). Clinically Oriented Anatomy (7th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
  • Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy (41st ed.). Edinburgh: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone

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