Subcoracoid impingement syndrome: the aetiological role of coracoid morphometry

Few studies have analysed the anatomical characteristics of the coracoid process. We studied the morphology and orientation of the coracoid process and measured its dimensions. To clarify the possible role of the coracoid process in the subcoracoid impingement syndrome we performed a morphometric anatomical study of 200 scapulae of Caucasian adult subjects. No correlation was found between the parameters analysed. Coracoid processes with similar length and/or thickness or equidistant from the anterior border of the glenoid, may be found in each of the three groups of scapulae. This study shows that 4% of the scapulae have bony morphometric characteristics which may predispose to subcoracoid impingement. Since the prevalence of this condition is not so high, it is conceivable that other constitutional or pathological conditions should be present for symptomatic impingement.