coracoclavicular ligaments (anatomy)

Last reviewed 01/2018

The coracoclavicular ligaments are strong supports between the lateral end of the clavicle and the coracoid process of the scapula. On each side, they are sited medially and inferior to the acromioclavicular joints. Each ligament is divided into two parts:

• conoid ligament:
• passes superomedially from the base of the coracoid to conoid tubercle on the under surface of the clavicle
• an 'inverted cone' in shape
• trapezoid ligament:
• passes horizontally and laterally from the superior surface of the coracoid to the trapezoid line on the under surface of the clavicle
• a flat sheet, it is stronger than the conoid ligament

The two ligaments are usually continous posteriorly but tend to be perpendicular to each other anteriorly. The gap anteriorly is filled by a syovial bursa.

The coracoclavicular ligaments have a vital role to play in movements of the pectoral girdle. The conoid ligament limits anterior movement of the scapula with respect to the clavicle. The trapezoid limits posterior movement between these two bones. Both ligaments prevent the clavicle from overriding the lateral end of the clavicle.