glenoïd

Glenoïd (also glénoïde in French; English: glenoid) designates the glenoid cavity, the concave articular surface on the lateral aspect of the scapula that forms the socket of the ball-and-socket glenohumeral joint with the head of the humerus. The cavity is relatively shallow and is deepened by the glenoid labrum, a fibrocartilaginous rim surrounding the margin. The articular surface is covered by hyaline cartilage, and the joint is stabilized by the capsule, the glenohumeral ligaments, and the surrounding rotator cuff muscles.

Anatomically, the glenoid cavity varies in size and shape among individuals. The glenoid labrum expands the effective contact area and helps resist dislocation. The bony rim and soft tissue structures work together to maintain joint congruence during a wide range of shoulder motions.

Clinical significance: Glenoid integrity is central to shoulder stability. Injuries include glenoid labrum tears (such as Bankart lesions) and fractures of the glenoid rim (glenoid rim fractures). These lesions can contribute to recurrent shoulder instability and may require conservative management or surgical repair, potentially including labral repair or bone grafting to restore stability.

Imaging and assessment: Radiographs, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to evaluate glenoid size, version, labral integrity, and any associated bone loss, guiding treatment decisions.

See also: Glenohumeral joint, scapula, glenoid labrum, Bankart lesion, shoulder instability.