Winged scapula

The scapula alata (from Latin scapula shoulder blade and Ala wing ) refers to the one or both sides ( scapulae alatae ) occurring wing-like protrusion of the shoulder blade ( scapula ) of the wall of the chest (thorax). The scapula alata is a symptom of various diseases.

Forms and deposits

Various forms of scapular winging be distinguished as a function of the paralyzed muscles. On the basis of certain movements can be distinguished in the context of the clinical examination between the different forms.

In paralysis of the musculus serratus anterior ( long thoracic nerve innervation ) a medial position of the scapula is characteristic. The scapula alata shows here particularly clear when pressed against a wall with arms outstretched to the front as well as in abduction of the arm above 90 ° ( Armelevation ).

A paralysis of the rhomboid muscles musculi ( muscle rhomboid muscle rhomboid major and minor), however, leads to a Lateralstellung of the scapula. The medial border of the scapula deviates inward, especially when the arm is abducted. However, an increase in Armelevation is not typical. The Musculi rhomboid muscles are supplied by the dorsal scapular nerve.

Paralysis of the trapezius muscle ( accessory nerve innervation ) leads according to the physiological function to a Lateralstellung of the scapula with protrusion of the medial edge. The scapula alata does not increase in trapezius by arm abduction and Armelevation.

In addition to lesions of individual nerves supplying the muscles of the scapula alata sign of neuralgic Schulteramyotrophie and numerous muscle diseases involving the shoulder girdle muscles (eg Gliedergürteldystrophien and Fazioskapulohumerale muscular dystrophy).