How Do You Spell SCALENE TUBERCLE?

1. Scalene tubercle refers to a bony prominence located on the first rib, specifically on its superior surface. It is commonly found at the junction of the posterior surface and the upper border of the first rib near the attachment of the anterior scalene muscle. The tubercle can vary in size and shape but is typically described as a small projection or an elevated area on the bone.

   The term "scalene" is derived from the Greek word "skalenos," meaning "uneven" or "crooked," which aptly describes the nonsymmetrical shape of the scalene tubercle. The scalene tubercle functions as an attachment site for the anterior scalene muscle, which is one of three scalene muscles located in the neck region.

   The anterior scalene muscle originates from the scalene tubercle and inserts onto the first rib. It functions to help stabilize and elevate the rib during breathing, as well as contribute to neck movements and the maintenance of proper posture.

   The scalene tubercle plays an important role in the functional anatomy of the thoracic region and has clinical significance in certain medical conditions. For instance, abnormalities or variations in the size and shape of the scalene tubercle may be associated with thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition characterized by pressure on the nerves or blood vessels in the upper chest region. Evaluation of the scalene tubercle is crucial in clinical assessments, radiographic examinations, and surgical interventions related to the thoracic outlet syndrome and other disorders involving the first rib.

2. Tuberculum scalenum, a prominence on the upper surface of the first rib about an inch from its anterior extremity, giving insertion to the scalenus anterior muscle.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SCALENE TUBERCLE

The word "scalene" is derived from the Greek word "skalenos", which means "uneven" or "unequal". It refers to a geometric term used to describe a triangle with sides of different lengths. In the context of anatomy, the scalene muscles are so named because they are obliquely shaped and have different lengths.

The word "tubercle" comes from the Latin word "tuberculum", meaning "a small swelling or protuberance". It is often used in anatomy to describe small, rounded, bony projections or prominences.

Therefore, the term "scalene tubercle" is a combination of these two words to describe a small bony protuberance or prominence found in the scalene muscles.