Clavicle – sternal end

Clavicle - sternal end

Anatomy

Medial end of clavicle (which is a long flat bone, elongated s-shape, convex at medial end, concave at lateral) articulates with manubrium of sternum.

Clinical

The only horizontal long bone (though ordinarily, no marrow), the clavicle acts as a strut, holding scapula in place and free to move on thoracic wall, which in turn holds the arm away from thorax, free to swing. Easily visible; covered at front and top only by skin.

Vignette

The shoulder (or pectoral) girdle is the scapula and clavicle.

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