The anatomy and potential effects of contracture of the coracohumeral ligament

Abstract

In 63 anatomic specimens of the shoulder, the coracohumeral ligament was found to be a clear, well-developed structure in 59 and absent or vestigial in four. The origin of the coracohumeral ligament was consistently found at the base of the coracoid process. The insertion was more variable, between the rotator interval, supraspinatus, and subscapularis. In fresh specimens, the coracohumeral ligament was tight with maximal external rotation, which increased an average of 32 degrees on sectioning this ligament only. The coracohumeral ligament has been found to be shortened in various pathologic states. Its release may be required to restore restricted external motion when doing arthroplasties or to allow adequate mobilization of the tendons when repairing retracted tears of the rotator cuff.