Bicipital groove

Bicipital Groove (also known as the intertubercular sulcus) is a deep groove on the humerus that separates the greater tubercle from the lesser tubercle. It is a significant anatomical structure in the upper limb, particularly in relation to the biceps brachii muscle.

Etymology

The term "bicipital groove" is derived from the Latin words "biceps" meaning "two-headed" and "sulcus" meaning "groove". This is in reference to the biceps brachii muscle, which has two heads and runs through this groove.

Anatomy

The bicipital groove is located on the anterior aspect of the proximal humerus. It is a deep, narrow furrow that separates the greater and lesser tubercles of the humerus. The medial wall of the groove is formed by the lesser tubercle, and the lateral wall by the greater tubercle. The floor of the groove is formed by the humeral head and the intertubercular plane.

The biceps brachii tendon, along with the synovial sheath, runs through the bicipital groove. The transverse humeral ligament, a small ligamentous structure, bridges the gap between the greater and lesser tubercles, securing the tendon in the groove.

Clinical Significance

The bicipital groove is clinically significant as it is a common site for biceps tendonitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the biceps tendon. This can result from overuse, trauma, or degenerative changes. Pain in the bicipital groove can be a sign of this condition.

Furthermore, the bicipital groove can be used as a landmark in surgical procedures involving the shoulder joint, such as rotator cuff repair.

Related Terms

• Biceps Brachii: A two-headed muscle that lies on the upper arm between the shoulder and the elbow.
• Humerus: The long bone in the upper arm or forelimb that runs from the shoulder to the elbow.
• Tubercle: A small rounded projection or protuberance, especially on a bone.

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Bicipital_groove

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the humerus

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  Sobo 1909 illustration of the humerus

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  Bicipital groove of the humerus

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  Anterior head of left humerus