Introduction
The coracoacromial ligament is a strong triangular band, extending between the coracoid process and the acromion.
The glenoid fossa of the right side. The coracoacromial ligament is seen at the top of the image.
The ligament is sometimes described as consisting of two marginal bands and a thinner intervening portion, the two bands being attached respectively to the apex and the base of the coracoid process, and joining together at the acromion. When the pectoralis minor is inserted, as occasionally is the case, into the capsule of the shoulder joint instead of into the coracoid process, it passes between these two bands, and the intervening portion of the ligament is then deficient.
Attachments
The coracoacromial ligament is attached, by its apex, to the summit of the acromion just in front of the articular surface for the clavicle; and by its broad base to the whole length of the lateral border of the coracoid process.
Course
It is in relation, above, with the clavicle and under surface of the deltoideus; below, with the tendon of the supraspinatus, a bursa being interposed. Its lateral border is continuous with a dense lamina that passes beneath the deltoideus on the tendons of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus.
Function
This ligament, together with the coracoid process and the acromion, forms a vault for the protection of the head of the humerus.
