Anomalous origin and course of the suprascapular artery combined with absence of the suprascapular vein: case study and clinical implications

Variations concerning the origin and course of the suprascapular artery are numerous and present important clinical implications. In the present study the origin and course of the suprascapular artery are investigated in a sample of Greek (Caucasian) origin. The anatomy and course of the suprascapular artery were carefully examined in 31 adult human cadavers (16 male and 15 female). Anomalous origin of the suprascapular artery from the third segment of the subclavian artery was observed in the right side of only one female Caucasian specimen (1/62 = 1.6%). The suprascapular artery and the suprascapular nerve passed together under the superior transverse scapular ligament through the suprascapular notch, whereas the suprascapular vein was absent. According to the available literature, this type of variation in the origin of the suprascapular artery is considered rare. This variation is clinically important, since it is related to the creation mechanism of suprascapular neuropathy and has also obvious surgical implications. The variation is embryologically enlightened and has an interesting ontogenic aspect.