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Greater tubercle of humerus

Anatomy, bony landmarks and function of the humerus.

The greater tubercle of the humerus is a bony projection of the lateral part of the proximal end of the humerus. It is situated lateral to the head of the humerus, and posterolateral to the lesser tubercle of humerus. The greater tubercle is the most lateral bony point of the humerus and is palpable at the posterolateral aspect of the shoulder.

The superior aspect of the greater tubercle is marked by three impressions that serve as attachment points for the supraspinatus, infraspinatus and teres minor muscles.

Inferiorly, the greater tubercle forms a well-defined ridge along its length, known as the crest of the greater tubercle. The crests of the greater and lesser tubercles demarcate a prominent groove called the intertubercular sulcus (bicipital groove), which contains the the tendon of the long head of biceps brachii muscle and an ascending branch from the anterior circumflex humeral artery.

Terminology English: Greater tubercle of humerus
Latin: Tuberculum majus humeri
Synonyms: Greater tuberosity of humerus
Location Lateral part of proximal end of humerus
Attachments Supraspinatus, infraspinatus and teres minor muscles

Test your knowledge on the anatomy of the humerus and scapula with this quiz.

If you want to learn everything about the humerus and scapula, check out out study unit below that contains videos, diagrams, quizzes and more:

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