Bone
Clavicle
Bony support between chest and shoulder
High-yield
It begins ossifying early in embryonic life, but its medial growth plate is among the last to close. Fractures are common in the middle part of the shaft.
Overview
The collarbone helps keep the shoulder clear of the chest so the arm can move freely. Its curved shaft connects the sternum to the scapula and transfers forces from the upper limb toward the trunk.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- An atypical long bone, with a small or poorly defined marrow cavity
- Key landmarks
- Medial sternal end; lateral acromial end; inferior conoid tubercle and trapezoid line; groove for subclavius
- Articulations
- Manubrium at the sternoclavicular joint; scapular acromion at the acromioclavicular joint
Clinical correlation
In a displaced midshaft fracture, sternocleidomastoid can lift the medial piece while the arm's weight draws the lateral piece downward. The amount and direction of displacement depend on the injury.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the clavicle?
An atypical long bone, with a small or poorly defined marrow cavity.
What does the clavicle articulate with?
Manubrium at the sternoclavicular joint; scapular acromion at the acromioclavicular joint.
What are the key landmarks of the clavicle?
Medial sternal end; lateral acromial end; inferior conoid tubercle and trapezoid line; groove for subclavius.