glenoiden

Glenoiden is the plural form used in some medical languages to refer to the glenoid cavities, the shallow articular sockets on the lateral aspect of the scapula that form the shoulder joint with the humeral heads. Each cavity is part of the scapula and serves as the articulation for the upper arm bone.

Each glenoid cavity is pear-shaped and lined with hyaline cartilage. A surrounding fibrocartilaginous rim, the glenoid labrum, deepens the socket and provides attachment for the joint capsule, ligaments, and the long head of the biceps tendon. The articular surface is covered by articular cartilage, enabling smooth movement within the glenohumeral joint.

The glenoid is relatively shallow, so stability relies on soft tissues and the labrum as well as the rotator cuff muscles. Joint stability is influenced by the labrum, capsule, and glenohumeral ligaments, along with variation in glenoid version and tilt, which can affect mechanics and injury risk.

Clinical relevance includes labral tears and glenoid bone loss that contribute to shoulder instability or arthritis. Imaging with MRI or CT assesses contour, labral integrity, and bone loss. Treatments range from arthroscopic labral repair to bone-grafting procedures such as the Latarjet, which augments the glenoid to restore stability. Glenoid-related conditions are a focal point in the evaluation and management of shoulder disorders.