glenoidal

Glenoidal is an anatomical adjective referring to the glenoid, the shallow articular socket on the lateral aspect of the scapula that articulates with the head of the humerus to form the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint. The glenoid cavity is relatively small and is deepened by the glenoid labrum, a fibrocartilaginous rim that surrounds the socket and helps stabilize the joint. The articular surface of the glenoid is covered with hyaline cartilage, while the surrounding bone forms the glenoid rim and contributes to joint congruence and stability.

Glenoidal morphology and orientation are important in clinical assessment. Variations in glenoid size, depth, and version (the rotational orientation of the socket) can influence shoulder stability and the outcome of procedures addressing instability. Glenoid bone loss or defects can occur after dislocations or trauma and may necessitate surgical planning that considers restoring the glenoid’s bone stock in addition to soft tissue repair.

Imaging and evaluation typically use X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). CT, often with three-dimensional reconstructions, is particularly useful for assessing glenoid geometry and bone loss, while MRI evaluates soft-tissue structures such as the glenoid labrum and rotator cuff. In orthopedic practice, glenoidal anatomy guides diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions, including procedures that augment or reconstruct the glenoid to restore stability.