0 above the scapula (= a large, flat bone on each side of the back below the shoulder): --
the suprascapular nerve
The anastomotic network surrounding the scapula provides an alternate path for collateral circulation to the arm from arteries including the dorsal scapular artery and suprascapular artery.
Suprascapular notch shown in red.
Suprascapular notch labbeled at top center.
The ligament can become ossified and impinge the underlying suprascapular nerve.
The suprascapular artery branches off from the thyrocervical trunk, which in turn arises from the first part of the subclavian artery.
The suprascapular artery gives of the acromial branch, which pierces the trapezius muscle and supplies the skin over the acromion, anastomosing with the thoracoacromial artery.
At the nerve trunk, branches of suprascapular nerves and the nerve to the subclavius also merge.
The suprascapular artery travels superiorly to the superior transverse ligament.
