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BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to develop a deep learning approach to automatically segment the scapular bone on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images and to compare the accuracy of these three-dimensional (3D) models with that of 3D computed tomography (CT). METHODS: Fifty-five patients with high-resolution 3D fat-saturated T2 MRI were retrospectively identified. The underlying pathology included rotator cuff tendinopathy and tears, shoulder instability, and impingement. Two experienced musculoskeletal researchers manually segmented the scapular bone. Five cross-validation training and validation splits were generated to independently train two-dimensional (2D) and 3D models using a convolutional neural network approach. Model performance was evaluated using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC). All models with DSC > 0.70 were ensembled and used for the test set, which consisted of four patients with matching high-resolution MRI and CT scans. Clinically relevant glenoid measurements, including glenoid height, width, and retroversion, were calculated for two of the patients. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare the DSC of the models. RESULTS: The 2D and 3D models achieved a best DSC of 0.86 and 0.82, respectively, with no significant difference observed. Augmentation of imaging data significantly improved 3D but not 2D model performance. In comparing clinical measurements of 3D MRI and CT, there was a mean difference ranging from 1.29 mm to 3.46 mm and 0.05° to 7.47°. CONCLUSION: We have presented a fully automatic, deep learning-based strategy for extracting scapular shape from a high-resolution MRI scan. Further developments of this technology have the potential to allow for surgeons to obtain all clinically relevant information from MRI scans and reduce the need for multiple imaging studies for patients with shoulder pathology.

Background Breast cancer survivors may be at risk of experiencing rotator cuff disease after treatment. Biomechanical alterations following surgery potentially predispose survivors to develop this disorder. Objective To examine scapular kinematics in breast cancer survivors with and without impingement pain during an overhead reach task. Design A cross-sectional study. Methods Three surgery groups were included: non-cancer controls, mastectomy-only survivors and post-reconstruction survivors. Breast cancer survivor groups were also categorized by the presence of impingement pain. Scapular motion was tracked during an overhead reach task, performed separately by both arms. Maximum scapular internal rotation, upward rotation and tilt were calculated. Two-way analyses of variance with interactions (p < .05) were used to test the effects of group (control, mastectomy-only, reconstruction) and impingement pain (pain, no pain) on each variable within a (left/right) side. Results Scapular kinematics varied with the group by pain interaction. On the right side, the mastectomy-pain group had reduced upward rotation, while the reconstruction-pain group had higher upward rotation (mastectomy-only: 22.9 degrees vs. reconstruction: 31.2 degrees). On the left side, the mastectomy-pain group had higher internal rotation, while the reconstruction-pain group had reduced internal rotation (mastectomy-only: 45.1 degrees vs. reconstruction: 39.3 degrees). However, time since surgery was longer in the mastectomy-pain group than reconstruction-pain group, suggesting there may be a temporal component to kinematic compensations. Conclusions There are kinematic alterations in breast cancer survivors that may promote future development of rotator cuff disease. Compensations may begin as protective and progress to more harmful alterations with time. KEY MESSAGES Scapular kinematics varied with surgery and pain interaction: upward rotation was lower and internal rotation higher in mastectom, QC 20220504

Background: Shoulder assessment in rehabilitation is focused on kinematic properties due to the variability of symptomatology and clinical expression of shoulder injuries. Aim: To perform a receiver operating characteristic analysis of the kinematic variables involved in the functional mobility of the shoulder that allow the identification of discriminating variables between healthy and diseased shoulders during scaption motion. Method: Analytical cross-sectional study of diagnostic effectiveness was performed in 27 subjects suffering from shoulder damage and 14 asymptomatic controls. Scaption kinematics were evaluated using four inertial sensors placed on the humerus, scapula, forearm and sternum. Three variables (mobility, velocity and acceleration) were obtained from each sensor and the norm of the resultant vector was calculated from each axis. A discriminatory receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed, obtaining the area under the curve, sensitivity and specificity. Findings: Significant differences from both the resultant vectors and the axis depended on the body segment analysed were observed. Greater movement velocity and acceleration were observed in the asymptomatic group. Receiver operating characteristic analysis, scapular protraction-retraction mobility distinguished with a diagnostic sensitivity of 83.3% and specificity of 90.9% between asymptomatic and shoulder-damaged patients. These diagnosis values were 83.3% and 72.7% for scapular anterior-posterior velocity. Scapular kinematics, in terms of mobility and velocity, are the key variables in shoulder assessment. Interpretation: This study discriminated between patients suffering from shoulder damage and asymptomatic subjects based on shoulder kinematics during scaption motion. Scapular mobility and velocity were found to be key variables in shoulder assessment, along with the humerus.

Introduction: Shoulder pain cases represents about 7% to 50% in the population and its prevalence in athletes between 15 and 19 years old is about 43.5%. Additionally, another pathology in the upper limb is scapular dyskinesia, caused by the scapular´s movements and position alteration. Objective: To determine association between scapula-vertebral distance and shoulder pain in athletes from a private university in Lima. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study - preliminary. The study population were athletes from a private university in Lima. The shoulder pain variables were measured by four orthopedic tests Jobe, Patte, Gerber, and Hawkins Kennedy, where shoulder pain (YES) is considered when at least one of the tests is positive and no shoulder pain (NO) when all tests are negative. And the scapular-vertebral distance variables were evaluated in three positions, by the lateral scapular sliding test (LSST); measured in (cm). Results: 51 athletes from climbing, rugby, volleyball, and basketball sports were evaluated in this study. The age ranged was 19 to 21 years. The scapula-vertebral distance of the right side was mayor than the left. 17.65% had shoulder pain. The frequency of training and sex associated with shoulder pain (p<0.05). The scapula-vertebral distance from athletes who had shoulder pain was higher than those without it (p<0.05). Conclusion: Was found association between scapula-vertebral and shoulder pain in athletes from a private university in Lima. Its recommended doing more researches with a considerable sample to reach an adequate statistical power., Introducción: El dolor de hombro representa casos de 7% al 50% en la población, su prevalencia en deportistas entre 15 y 19 años es de 43,5%. Adicionalmente, otra patología en la extremidad superior es la disquinesia escapular, generada por la alteración de la posición y el movimiento de la escápula. Objetivo: Determinar si existe asociación entre la distancia escápulo-vertebral y el dolor de hombro en deportistas de una universidad privada de Lima. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal analítico - preliminar. La población fueron deportistas de una universidad privada de Lima. Las variables fueron, dolor de hombro medido por cuatro test ortopédicos Jobe, Patte, Gerber y Hawkins Kennedy, donde se considera dolor de hombro (SI) cuando al menos de unos de los test da positivo y no dolor de hombro (NO) cuando todos los tests dan negativo, respecto a la variable distancia escápulo-vertebral evaluada en tres posiciones, por la prueba de deslizamiento escapular lateral (LSST) medido en (cm). Resultado: Se evaluaron 51 deportistas de escalada, rugby, vóley y básquetbol. La edad tuvo un rango de 19 a 21 años. La distancia escápulo-vertebral del lado derecho fue mayor que el izquierdo. El 17.65% de la población si tuvo dolor de hombro. La frecuencia de entrenamiento y el sexo estuvieron asociados con el dolor de hombro (p<0.05). La distancia escápulo-vertebral de los que tenían dolor de hombro era mayor que en los que no tenían dolor (p<0.05). Conclusiones: Si se encontró asociación entre la distancia escápulo vertebral y el dolor de hombro en los deportistas de una universidad privada de Lima. Se recomienda realizar estudios con mayor tamaño de muestra para alcanzar un adecuado poder estadístico., Tesis

Motion analysis using inertial measurement units (IMU) has emerged as an alternative to optical motion capture. However, the validity and reliability of upper limb measurements varies significantly between studies. The objective of this study was to determine how sensor placement affects kinematic output in the assessment of motion of the arm, shoulder, and scapula. IMUs were placed proximally/distally on arms, and medially/laterally on the scapula, in a group of eleven healthy participants, while performing nine different motion tasks. Linear regressions and mixed models analysed how these different sensor placements affected the estimated joint motion by establishing the linear relationship between sensors placed on the same body segment. The placement of sensors affected the measured kinematic output considerably, most prominent affect was seen for sensor placement on scapula during flexion and abduction, and on forearm during pronation/supination. The slope of the linear regression lines was 2.5 during flexion, 2.7 during abduction, and 1.8 for forearm pronation/supination. The results of this study suggest that the forearm sensor should be placed on the dorsal side of the forearm, at the distal end; the upper arm sensor should be placed laterally, on the distal part of the arm; and the sensor on the scapula should be placed cranially, along the spine of scapula.

Motion analysis using inertial measurement units (IMU) has emerged as an alternative to optical motion capture. However, the validity and reliability of upper limb measurements varies significantly between studies. The objective of this study was to determine how sensor placement affects kinematic output in the assessment of motion of the arm, shoulder, and scapula. IMUs were placed proximally/distally on arms, and medially/laterally on the scapula, in a group of eleven healthy participants, while performing nine different motion tasks. Linear regressions and mixed models analysed how these different sensor placements affected the estimated joint motion by establishing the linear relationship between sensors placed on the same body segment. The placement of sensors affected the measured kinematic output considerably, most prominent affect was seen for sensor placement on scapula during flexion and abduction, and on forearm during pronation/supination. The slope of the linear regression lines was 2.5 during flexion, 2.7 during abduction, and 1.8 for forearm pronation/supination. The results of this study suggest that the forearm sensor should be placed on the dorsal side of the forearm, at the distal end; the upper arm sensor should be placed laterally, on the distal part of the arm; and the sensor on the scapula should be placed cranially, along the spine of scapula.

Motion analysis using inertial measurement units (IMU) has emerged as an alternative to optical motion capture. However, the validity and reliability of upper limb measurements varies significantly between studies. The objective of this study was to determine how sensor placement affects kinematic output in the assessment of motion of the arm, shoulder, and scapula. IMUs were placed proximally/distally on arms, and medially/laterally on the scapula, in a group of eleven healthy participants, while performing nine different motion tasks. Linear regressions and mixed models analysed how these different sensor placements affected the estimated joint motion by establishing the linear relationship between sensors placed on the same body segment. The placement of sensors affected the measured kinematic output considerably, most prominent affect was seen for sensor placement on scapula during flexion and abduction, and on forearm during pronation/supination. The slope of the linear regression lines was 2.5 during flexion, 2.7 during abduction, and 1.8 for forearm pronation/supination. The results of this study suggest that the forearm sensor should be placed on the dorsal side of the forearm, at the distal end; the upper arm sensor should be placed laterally, on the distal part of the arm; and the sensor on the scapula should be placed cranially, along the spine of scapula.

Motion analysis using inertial measurement units (IMU) has emerged as an alternative to optical motion capture. However, the validity and reliability of upper limb measurements varies significantly between studies. The objective of this study was to determine how sensor placement affects kinematic output in the assessment of motion of the arm, shoulder, and scapula. IMUs were placed proximally/distally on arms, and medially/laterally on the scapula, in a group of eleven healthy participants, while performing nine different motion tasks. Linear regressions and mixed models analysed how these different sensor placements affected the estimated joint motion by establishing the linear relationship between sensors placed on the same body segment. The placement of sensors affected the measured kinematic output considerably, most prominent affect was seen for sensor placement on scapula during flexion and abduction, and on forearm during pronation/supination. The slope of the linear regression lines was 2.5 during flexion, 2.7 during abduction, and 1.8 for forearm pronation/supination. The results of this study suggest that the forearm sensor should be placed on the dorsal side of the forearm, at the distal end; the upper arm sensor should be placed laterally, on the distal part of the arm; and the sensor on the scapula should be placed cranially, along the spine of scapula.

Motion analysis using inertial measurement units (IMU) has emerged as an alternative to optical motion capture. However, the validity and reliability of upper limb measurements varies significantly between studies. The objective of this study was to determine how sensor placement affects kinematic output in the assessment of motion of the arm, shoulder, and scapula. IMUs were placed proximally/distally on arms, and medially/laterally on the scapula, in a group of eleven healthy participants, while performing nine different motion tasks. Linear regressions and mixed models analysed how these different sensor placements affected the estimated joint motion by establishing the linear relationship between sensors placed on the same body segment. The placement of sensors affected the measured kinematic output considerably, most prominent affect was seen for sensor placement on scapula during flexion and abduction, and on forearm during pronation/supination. The slope of the linear regression lines was 2.5 during flexion, 2.7 during abduction, and 1.8 for forearm pronation/supination. The results of this study suggest that the forearm sensor should be placed on the dorsal side of the forearm, at the distal end; the upper arm sensor should be placed laterally, on the distal part of the arm; and the sensor on the scapula should be placed cranially, along the spine of scapula.

A 46-year-old man presented with severe refractory posterior shoulder pain due to a left scapular fracture sustained during a motor vehicle collision. Despite multimodal oral and intravenous analgesics, the patients pain remained difficult to control. A continuous paravertebral nerve block was performed between the second and third thoracic vertebrae resulting in excellent analgesia of the scapular pain. This case suggests that a continuous thoracic paravertebral block placed between the second and third vertebrae may be considered as part of multimodal analgesia in patients with scapular fractures.

A 20-year-old Quarter horse gelding was referred for evaluation of an acute onset non-weight-bearing right forelimb lameness. Marked soft tissue swelling was apparent over the right scapula and shoulder region; no crepitus was palpable. A complete transverse fracture of the scapular neck was suspected based on ultrasonography and radiographs were obtained to confirm the presumptive diagnosis. A complete, oblique fracture of the right scapular neck with mild cranial and proximal displacement of the distal fragment was detected. Computed tomography of the upper right forelimb was performed post-mortem; lytic bony destruction of the scapular neck with a secondary pathologic fracture was observed. The lesion was considered most likely neoplastic. At necropsy a complete, comminuted fracture of the right scapula was confirmed, secondary to neoplastic invasion of the bone. A solitary, dorsally located, neoplastic mass was also observed within the parenchyma of the right caudal lung. Histopathologically, the lung and scapula lesions were similar, characteristic of a well-differentiated pulmonary carcinoma.

STUDY OBJECTIVE:In the current era of frequent chest computed tomography (CT) for adult blunt trauma evaluation, many minor injuries are diagnosed, potentially rendering traditional teachings obsolete. We seek to update teachings in regard to thoracic spine fracture by determining how often such fractures are observed on CT only (ie, not visualized on preceding trauma chest radiograph), the admission rate, mortality, and hospital length of stay of thoracic spine fracture patients, and how often thoracic spine fractures are clinically significant. METHODS:This was a preplanned analysis of prospectively collected data from the NEXUS Chest CT study conducted from 2011 to 2014 at 9 Level I trauma centers. The inclusion criteria were older than 14 years, blunt trauma occurring within 6 hours of emergency department (ED) presentation, and chest imaging (radiography, CT, or both) during ED evaluation. RESULTS:Of 11,477 enrolled subjects, 217 (1.9%) had a thoracic spine fracture; 181 of the 198 thoracic spine fracture patients (91.4%) who had both chest radiograph and CT had their thoracic spine fracture observed on CT only. Half of patients (49.8%) had more than 1 level of thoracic spine fracture, with a mean of 2.1 levels (SD 1.6 levels) of thoracic spine involved. Most patients (62%) had associated thoracic injuries. Compared with patients without thoracic spine fracture, those with it had higher admission rates (88.5% versus 47.2%; difference 41.3%; 95% confidence interval 36.3% to 45%), higher mortality (6.3% versus 4.0%; difference 2.3%; 95% confidence interval 0 to 6.7%), and longer length of stay (median 9 versus 6 days; difference 3 days; P<.001). However, thoracic spine fracture patients without other thoracic injury had mortality similar to that of patients without thoracic spine fracture (4.6% versus 4%; difference 0.6%; 95% confidence interval -2.5% to 8.6%). Less than half of thoracic spine fractures (47.4%) were clinically significant: 40.8% of patients re

STUDY OBJECTIVE:In the current era of frequent chest computed tomography (CT) for adult blunt trauma evaluation, many minor injuries are diagnosed, potentially rendering traditional teachings obsolete. We seek to update teachings in regard to thoracic spine fracture by determining how often such fractures are observed on CT only (ie, not visualized on preceding trauma chest radiograph), the admission rate, mortality, and hospital length of stay of thoracic spine fracture patients, and how often thoracic spine fractures are clinically significant. METHODS:This was a preplanned analysis of prospectively collected data from the NEXUS Chest CT study conducted from 2011 to 2014 at 9 Level I trauma centers. The inclusion criteria were older than 14 years, blunt trauma occurring within 6 hours of emergency department (ED) presentation, and chest imaging (radiography, CT, or both) during ED evaluation. RESULTS:Of 11,477 enrolled subjects, 217 (1.9%) had a thoracic spine fracture; 181 of the 198 thoracic spine fracture patients (91.4%) who had both chest radiograph and CT had their thoracic spine fracture observed on CT only. Half of patients (49.8%) had more than 1 level of thoracic spine fracture, with a mean of 2.1 levels (SD 1.6 levels) of thoracic spine involved. Most patients (62%) had associated thoracic injuries. Compared with patients without thoracic spine fracture, those with it had higher admission rates (88.5% versus 47.2%; difference 41.3%; 95% confidence interval 36.3% to 45%), higher mortality (6.3% versus 4.0%; difference 2.3%; 95% confidence interval 0 to 6.7%), and longer length of stay (median 9 versus 6 days; difference 3 days; P<.001). However, thoracic spine fracture patients without other thoracic injury had mortality similar to that of patients without thoracic spine fracture (4.6% versus 4%; difference 0.6%; 95% confidence interval -2.5% to 8.6%). Less than half of thoracic spine fractures (47.4%) were clinically significant: 40.8% of patients re

In tetrapods, the scapular and pelvic girdles perform the important function of anchoring the limbs to the trunk of the body and facilitating the movement of each appendage. This shared function, however, is one of relatively few similarities between the scapula and pelvis, which have significantly different morphologies, evolutionary histories, embryonic origins, and underlying genetic pathways. The scapula evolved in jawless fish prior to the pelvis, and its embryonic development is unique among bones in that it is derived from multiple progenitor cell populations, including the dermomyotome, somatopleure, and neural crest. Conversely, the pelvis evolved several million years later in jawed fish, and it develops from an embryonic somatopleuric cell population. The genetic networks controlling the formation of the pelvis and scapula also share similarities and differences, with a number of genes shaping only one or the other, while other gene products such as PBX transcription factors act as hierarchical developmental regulators of both girdle structures. Here, we provide a detailed review of the cellular processes and genetic networks underlying pelvis and scapula formation in tetrapods, while also highlighting unanswered questions about girdle evolution and development.

[ES] En el siguiente Trabajo Final de Grado (en adelante TFG) se detalla el proceso de intervención de los restos óseos que conforman la escápula de un dinosaurio estegosáurido procedente de los niveles basales de la Formación Villar del Arzobispo (Jurásico Superior). Los restos fósiles fueron extraídos en la campaña de excavación llevada a cabo en octubre del 2013 en el yacimiento paleontológico de El Balsón , localizado en el término municipal de La Yesa (comarca de los Serranos, Valencia). Tras su extracción, los restos fueron trasladados a la Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, en cuyo laboratorio de microscopía del Departamento de Ingeniería del Terreno se procedió a su parcial intervención en 2016. Tras la restauración realizada durante el TFG, desarollado en ese mismo departamento, serán depositados en el Museo Paleontológico de Alpuente. Durante el transcurso del mismo se realiza un estudio del contexto geográfico y geológico del hallazgo, así como el análisis en detalle del material constituyente y del estado de conservación de las piezas, evaluando a su vez las restauraciones efectuadas con anterioridad. Tras la fase de documentación y previa propuesta de intervención, se procede a realizar la restauración del fósil, cuya finalidad consiste en eliminar antiguas restauraciones improcedentes, limpiar, consolidar, montar y proteger los restos óseos. De esta manera, se asegura la legibilidad de la pieza, contribuyendo a su estudio paleontológico y musealización. Una correcta conservación preventiva posterior, asegurará la estabilidad y la perdurabilidad del mismo., [EN] This Final Degree Project (FDP) focuses on the preparation of a stegosaurid dinosaur scapula recovered from the Upper Jurassic Villar del Arzobispo Formation. The fossil remains were recovered along the 2013 field campaign carried out at the El Balsón fossil site, in the vicinity of La Yesa locality (Los Serranos, Valencia province). The remains were taken to the laboratory of microscopy of the Departamento de Ingeniería del Terreno at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia. The material was partly restored in 2016. After restoration process and scientific study, the specimen will be permanently housed at the Museo paleontológico de Alpuente. During the course of the FDP, carried out in the abovementioned centre, a preliminary study of the geographical and geological context is made, as well as the analysis of the state of preservation of the materials. Former restorations of the specimen were evaluated. Later to the documentation and intervention proposal, starts the specimen restoration. Restoration consisted in the removal of the materials applied in former restorations, followed by the surficial cleaning, assemblage and final consolidation of the fossil fragments. Thus, the legibility of the piece is assured, contributing to its paleontological study and musealization. A posterior preventive conservation treatment will ensure the stability and durability of the specimen.

This article was supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Open Access Publication Fund of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin., Homoplasy is a strong indicator of a phenotypic trait's adaptive significance when it can be linked to a similar function. We assessed homoplasy in functionally relevant scapular and femoral traits of Marmotini and Xerini, two sciuromorph rodent clades that independently acquired a fossorial lifestyle from an arboreal ancestor. We studied 125 species in the scapular dataset and 123 species in the femoral dataset. Pairwise evolutionary model comparison was used to evaluate whether homoplasy of trait optima is more likely than other plausible scenarios. The most likely trend of trait evolution among all traits was assessed via likelihood scoring of all considered models. The homoplasy hypothesis could never be confirmed as the single most likely model. Regarding likelihood scoring, scapular traits most frequently did not differ among Marmotini, Xerini, and arboreal species. For the majority of femoral traits, results indicate that Marmotini, but not Xerini, evolved away from the ancestral arboreal condition. We conclude on the basis of the scapular results that the forelimbs of fossorial and arboreal sciuromorphs share mostly similar functional demands, whereas the results on the femur indicate that the hind limb morphology is less constrained, perhaps depending on the specific fossorial habitat., Peer Reviewed

Subacromial impingement syndrome is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and is associated with substantial shoulder impairments. The initial treatment should be non-operative in form of rotator cuff and scapula strengthening exercises for at least three months. Not all patients respond satisfactorily to non-operative treatment, but only patients with persistent symptoms after sufficiently tried non-operative treatment, should be referred to an orthopaedic specialist.

[ES] En el siguiente Trabajo Final de Grado (en adelante TFG) se detalla el proceso de intervención de los restos óseos que conforman la escápula de un dinosaurio estegosáurido procedente de los niveles basales de la Formación Villar del Arzobispo (Jurásico Superior). Los restos fósiles fueron extraídos en la campaña de excavación llevada a cabo en octubre del 2013 en el yacimiento paleontológico de El Balsón , localizado en el término municipal de La Yesa (comarca de los Serranos, Valencia). Tras su extracción, los restos fueron trasladados a la Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, en cuyo laboratorio de microscopía del Departamento de Ingeniería del Terreno se procedió a su parcial intervención en 2016. Tras la restauración realizada durante el TFG, desarollado en ese mismo departamento, serán depositados en el Museo Paleontológico de Alpuente. Durante el transcurso del mismo se realiza un estudio del contexto geográfico y geológico del hallazgo, así como el análisis en detalle del material constituyente y del estado de conservación de las piezas, evaluando a su vez las restauraciones efectuadas con anterioridad. Tras la fase de documentación y previa propuesta de intervención, se procede a realizar la restauración del fósil, cuya finalidad consiste en eliminar antiguas restauraciones improcedentes, limpiar, consolidar, montar y proteger los restos óseos. De esta manera, se asegura la legibilidad de la pieza, contribuyendo a su estudio paleontológico y musealización. Una correcta conservación preventiva posterior, asegurará la estabilidad y la perdurabilidad del mismo., [EN] This Final Degree Project (FDP) focuses on the preparation of a stegosaurid dinosaur scapula recovered from the Upper Jurassic Villar del Arzobispo Formation. The fossil remains were recovered along the 2013 field campaign carried out at the El Balsón fossil site, in the vicinity of La Yesa locality (Los Serranos, Valencia province). The remains were taken to the laboratory of microscopy of the Departamento de Ingeniería del Terreno at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia. The material was partly restored in 2016. After restoration process and scientific study, the specimen will be permanently housed at the Museo paleontológico de Alpuente. During the course of the FDP, carried out in the abovementioned centre, a preliminary study of the geographical and geological context is made, as well as the analysis of the state of preservation of the materials. Former restorations of the specimen were evaluated. Later to the documentation and intervention proposal, starts the specimen restoration. Restoration consisted in the removal of the materials applied in former restorations, followed by the surficial cleaning, assemblage and final consolidation of the fossil fragments. Thus, the legibility of the piece is assured, contributing to its paleontological study and musealization. A posterior preventive conservation treatment will ensure the stability and durability of the specimen.

Homoplasy is a strong indicator of a phenotypic trait's adaptive significance when it can be linked to a similar function. We assessed homoplasy in functionally relevant scapular and femoral traits of Marmotini and Xerini, two sciuromorph rodent clades that independently acquired a fossorial lifestyle from an arboreal ancestor. We studied 125 species in the scapular dataset and 123 species in the femoral dataset. Pairwise evolutionary model comparison was used to evaluate whether homoplasy of trait optima is more likely than other plausible scenarios. The most likely trend of trait evolution among all traits was assessed via likelihood scoring of all considered models. The homoplasy hypothesis could never be confirmed as the single most likely model. Regarding likelihood scoring, scapular traits most frequently did not differ among Marmotini, Xerini, and arboreal species. For the majority of femoral traits, results indicate that Marmotini, but not Xerini, evolved away from the ancestral arboreal condition. We conclude on the basis of the scapular results that the forelimbs of fossorial and arboreal sciuromorphs share mostly similar functional demands, whereas the results on the femur indicate that the hind limb morphology is less constrained, perhaps depending on the specific fossorial habitat., Peer Reviewed

[ES] En el siguiente Trabajo Final de Grado (en adelante TFG) se detalla el proceso de intervención de los restos óseos que conforman la escápula de un dinosaurio estegosáurido procedente de los niveles basales de la Formación Villar del Arzobispo (Jurásico Superior). Los restos fósiles fueron extraídos en la campaña de excavación llevada a cabo en octubre del 2013 en el yacimiento paleontológico de El Balsón , localizado en el término municipal de La Yesa (comarca de los Serranos, Valencia). Tras su extracción, los restos fueron trasladados a la Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, en cuyo laboratorio de microscopía del Departamento de Ingeniería del Terreno se procedió a su parcial intervención en 2016. Tras la restauración realizada durante el TFG, desarollado en ese mismo departamento, serán depositados en el Museo Paleontológico de Alpuente. Durante el transcurso del mismo se realiza un estudio del contexto geográfico y geológico del hallazgo, así como el análisis en detalle del material constituyente y del estado de conservación de las piezas, evaluando a su vez las restauraciones efectuadas con anterioridad. Tras la fase de documentación y previa propuesta de intervención, se procede a realizar la restauración del fósil, cuya finalidad consiste en eliminar antiguas restauraciones improcedentes, limpiar, consolidar, montar y proteger los restos óseos. De esta manera, se asegura la legibilidad de la pieza, contribuyendo a su estudio paleontológico y musealización. Una correcta conservación preventiva posterior, asegurará la estabilidad y la perdurabilidad del mismo., [EN] This Final Degree Project (FDP) focuses on the preparation of a stegosaurid dinosaur scapula recovered from the Upper Jurassic Villar del Arzobispo Formation. The fossil remains were recovered along the 2013 field campaign carried out at the El Balsón fossil site, in the vicinity of La Yesa locality (Los Serranos, Valencia province). The remains were taken to the laboratory of microscopy of the Departamento de Ingeniería del Terreno at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia. The material was partly restored in 2016. After restoration process and scientific study, the specimen will be permanently housed at the Museo paleontológico de Alpuente. During the course of the FDP, carried out in the abovementioned centre, a preliminary study of the geographical and geological context is made, as well as the analysis of the state of preservation of the materials. Former restorations of the specimen were evaluated. Later to the documentation and intervention proposal, starts the specimen restoration. Restoration consisted in the removal of the materials applied in former restorations, followed by the surficial cleaning, assemblage and final consolidation of the fossil fragments. Thus, the legibility of the piece is assured, contributing to its paleontological study and musealization. A posterior preventive conservation treatment will ensure the stability and durability of the specimen.

Erworben im Rahmen der Schweizer Nationallizenzen (http://www.nationallizenzen.ch), A preclinical analysis of novel implants used in shoulder surgery requires biomechanical testing conditions close to physiology. Existing shoulder experiments may only partially apply multiple cycles to simulate postoperative, repetitive loading tasks. The aim of the present study was therefore the development of an experimental shoulder simulator with rotating scapula able to perform multiple humeral movement cycles by simulating individual muscles attached to the rotator cuff. A free-hanging, metallic humerus pivoted in a polyethylene glenoid is activated by tension forces of linear electroactuators to simulate muscles of the deltoideus (DELT), supraspinatus (SSP), infraspinatus/teres minor and subscapularis. The abductors DELT and SSP apply forces with a ratio of 3:1 up to an abduction angle of 85°. The rotating scapular part driven by a rotative electro actuator provides one-third to the overall arm abduction. Resulting joint forces and moments are measured by a 6-axis load cell. A linear increase in the DELT and SSP motors is shown up to a maximum of 150 and 50 N for the DELT and SSP, respectively. The force vector in the glenoid resulted in 253 N at the maximum abduction. The present investigation shows the contribution of individual muscle forces attached to the moving humerus to perform active abduction in order to reproducibly test shoulder implants.

Erworben im Rahmen der Schweizer Nationallizenzen (http://www.nationallizenzen.ch), A preclinical analysis of novel implants used in shoulder surgery requires biomechanical testing conditions close to physiology. Existing shoulder experiments may only partially apply multiple cycles to simulate postoperative, repetitive loading tasks. The aim of the present study was therefore the development of an experimental shoulder simulator with rotating scapula able to perform multiple humeral movement cycles by simulating individual muscles attached to the rotator cuff. A free-hanging, metallic humerus pivoted in a polyethylene glenoid is activated by tension forces of linear electroactuators to simulate muscles of the deltoideus (DELT), supraspinatus (SSP), infraspinatus/teres minor and subscapularis. The abductors DELT and SSP apply forces with a ratio of 3:1 up to an abduction angle of 85°. The rotating scapular part driven by a rotative electro actuator provides one-third to the overall arm abduction. Resulting joint forces and moments are measured by a 6-axis load cell. A linear increase in the DELT and SSP motors is shown up to a maximum of 150 and 50 N for the DELT and SSP, respectively. The force vector in the glenoid resulted in 253 N at the maximum abduction. The present investigation shows the contribution of individual muscle forces attached to the moving humerus to perform active abduction in order to reproducibly test shoulder implants.

Prone plank is a widely used exercise in core stability training. Research has shown that pelvic tilt plays an important role on the electromyographic (EMG) activation of core musculature. However, the influence of scapular position on EMG activation is currently unknown. Therefore, this study evaluated the influence of scapular position on the core muscles during a prone plank. Surface EMG of the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO), and erector spinae (ES) was collected in 15 participants (10 men and 5 women). Four variations of the prone plank were evaluated: scapular abduction with anterior (ABANT) and posterior (ABRET) pelvic tilt; and scapular adduction with anterior (ADANT), and posterior (ADRET) pelvic tilt. Individual muscle EMG and overall EMG for each plank exercise was analyzed. Joint positions were controlled with a 2D kinematic analysis. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were also registered. The ADRET resulted in higher overall EMG activity compared with ABANT (p = 0.04) and ADANT (p = 0.04). Moreover, ADRET resulted in greater EMG activity compared with ADANT, ABANT, and ABRET for EO (p = 0.000; p = 0.000; p = 0.035), IO (p = 0.000; p = 0.000; p = 0.005), and ES (p = 0.019; p = 0.001; p = 0.014). Regarding RA, ADRET was significantly higher compared with ADANT (p = 0.002) and ABANT (p = 0.005). Finally, ADRET provoked a higher RPE compared with ABANT (p = 0.000), ABRET (p = 0.001), and ADANT (p = 0.015). These findings demonstrate the influence of the scapular and pelvic position on the EMG response of the core muscle groups analyzed in this study, and highlight the greater contribution of these muscles to the postural stabilizing demands during posterior pelvic tilt positions, particularly when the scapulae are in adduction.

The evolutionary transition from an ape-like to human-like upper extremity occurred in the context of a behavioral shift from an upper limb predominantly involved in locomotion to one adapted for manipulation. Selection for overarm throwing and endurance running is thought to have further shaped modern human shoulder girdle morphology and its position about the thorax. Homo naledi (Dinaledi Chamber, Rising Star Cave, Cradle of Humankind, South Africa) combines an australopith-like cranial capacity with dental characteristics akin to early Homo. Although the hand, foot, and lower limb display many derived morphologies, the upper limb retains many primitive traits. Here, we describe the H. naledi upper extremity (excluding the hand) in detail and in a comparative context to evaluate the diversity of clavicular, scapular, humeral, radial, and ulnar morphology among early hominins and later Homo. Homo naledi had a scapula with a markedly cranially-oriented glenoid, a humerus with extremely low torsion, and an australopith-like clavicle. These traits indicate that the H. naledi scapula was situated superiorly and laterally on the thorax. This shoulder girdle configuration is more similar to that of Australopithecus and distinct from that of modern humans, whose scapulae are positioned low and dorsally about the thorax. Although early Homo erectus maintains many primitive clavicular and humeral features, its derived scapular morphology suggests a loss of climbing adaptations. In contrast, the H. naledi upper limb is markedly primitive, retaining morphology conducive to climbing while lacking many of the derived features related to effective throwing or running purported to characterize other members of early Homo.

Prone plank is a widely used exercise in core stability training. Research has shown that pelvic tilt plays an important role on the electromyographic (EMG) activation of core musculature. However, the influence of scapular position on EMG activation is currently unknown. Therefore, this study evaluated the influence of scapular position on the core muscles during a prone plank. Surface EMG of the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO), and erector spinae (ES) was collected in 15 participants (10 men and 5 women). Four variations of the prone plank were evaluated: scapular abduction with anterior (ABANT) and posterior (ABRET) pelvic tilt; and scapular adduction with anterior (ADANT), and posterior (ADRET) pelvic tilt. Individual muscle EMG and overall EMG for each plank exercise was analyzed. Joint positions were controlled with a 2D kinematic analysis. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were also registered. The ADRET resulted in higher overall EMG activity compared with ABANT (p = 0.04) and ADANT (p = 0.04). Moreover, ADRET resulted in greater EMG activity compared with ADANT, ABANT, and ABRET for EO (p = 0.000; p = 0.000; p = 0.035), IO (p = 0.000; p = 0.000; p = 0.005), and ES (p = 0.019; p = 0.001; p = 0.014). Regarding RA, ADRET was significantly higher compared with ADANT (p = 0.002) and ABANT (p = 0.005). Finally, ADRET provoked a higher RPE compared with ABANT (p = 0.000), ABRET (p = 0.001), and ADANT (p = 0.015). These findings demonstrate the influence of the scapular and pelvic position on the EMG response of the core muscle groups analyzed in this study, and highlight the greater contribution of these muscles to the postural stabilizing demands during posterior pelvic tilt positions, particularly when the scapulae are in adduction.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to implement qualitative and quantitative magnetic resonance sequences for the evaluation of labral pathology.MethodsSix glenoid labra were dissected, and the anterior and posterior portions were divided into normal, mildly degenerated, or severely degenerated groups using gross and magnetic resonance findings. Qualitative evaluation was performed using T1-weighted, proton density-weighted, spoiled gradient echo and ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequences. Quantitative evaluation included T2 and T1rho measurements as well as T1, T2*, and T1rho measurements acquired with UTE techniques.ResultsSpoiled gradient echo and UTE sequences best demonstrated labral fiber structure. Degenerated labra had a tendency toward decreased T1 values, increased T2/T2* values, and increased T1rho values. T2* values obtained with the UTE sequence allowed for delineation among normal, mildly degenerated, and severely degenerated groups (P < 0.001).ConclusionsQuantitative T2* measurements acquired with the UTE technique are useful for distinguishing among normal, mildly degenerated, and severely degenerated labra.

Bone tumors are infrequent within the scapula. Total scapulectomy with massive allograft reconstruction represents an attractive alternative to amputation when the whole scapula is invaded with tumor and the neurovascular bundle can be preserved during tumor resection. We report a case of resection of the scapula and proximal humerus for recurrent osteosarcoma with massive allograft reconstruction of the scapula and proximal humerus. A 22-year-old male patient was seen in February 1992 for a pathological fracture of the proximal left humerus. In July 1992, a resection of the proximal end of the humerus followed by a reconstruction with osteochondral allograft and nail osteosynthesis was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. In September 2009, 17 years later, the patient presented with a huge tumor developed at the level of the scapula. There was no vascular or neurological symptom. Plain radiography showed an expansive osteolytic mass. CT scan demonstrated scapular and proximal humerus invasion. An extended assessment revealed the presence of two pulmonary nodules. The biopsy confirmed the recurrence of osteosarcoma. The indication of a resection of both the left scapula and the 1992 allograft which was completely invaded at its proximal portion and the complete reconstruction of the scapula and the proximal humerus with allograft was made. One year postoperatively, we note a favourable outcome in terms of musculoskeletal functions. Despite two resection surgeries of pulmonary nodules and chemotherapy treatments, the patient developed new lung metastases and an unfavourable outcome. Although shoulder function was almost completely eliminated following surgery, preservation of elbow, wrist and finger motion resulted in an acceptable level of postoperative limb function. This reconstruction appears to be an attractive technique to be used in similar cases. The necessity of a reliable tissue bank with quality allografts in sufficient number is paramount.

In 1993, a fossil hominin skeleton was discovered in the karst caves of Lamalunga, near Altamura, in southern Italy. Despite the fact that this specimen represents one of the most extraordinary hominin specimens ever found in Europe, for the last two decades our knowledge of it has been based purely on the documented on-site observations. Recently, the retrieval from the cave of a fragment of bone (part of the right scapula) allowed the first dating of the individual, the quantitative analysis of a diagnostic morphological feature, and a preliminary paleogenetic characterization of this hominin skeleton from Altamura. Overall, the results concur in indicating that it belongs to the hypodigm of Homo neanderthalensis, with some phenetic peculiarities that appear consistent with a chronology ranging from 172 ± 15 ka to 130.1 ± 1.9 ka. Thus, the skeleton from Altamura represents the most ancient Neanderthal from which endogenous DNA has ever been extracted.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to implement qualitative and quantitative magnetic resonance sequences for the evaluation of labral pathology.MethodsSix glenoid labra were dissected, and the anterior and posterior portions were divided into normal, mildly degenerated, or severely degenerated groups using gross and magnetic resonance findings. Qualitative evaluation was performed using T1-weighted, proton density-weighted, spoiled gradient echo and ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequences. Quantitative evaluation included T2 and T1rho measurements as well as T1, T2*, and T1rho measurements acquired with UTE techniques.ResultsSpoiled gradient echo and UTE sequences best demonstrated labral fiber structure. Degenerated labra had a tendency toward decreased T1 values, increased T2/T2* values, and increased T1rho values. T2* values obtained with the UTE sequence allowed for delineation among normal, mildly degenerated, and severely degenerated groups (P < 0.001).ConclusionsQuantitative T2* measurements acquired with the UTE technique are useful for distinguishing among normal, mildly degenerated, and severely degenerated labra.

Fossil remains of reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) occurring outside their present range are an important indicator of formerly cold climatic conditions, but are easily confused with those of the red deer (Cervus elaphus). The locality of Kiputz IX has yielded one of the best-preserved Late Pleistocene reindeer populations of the southern Pyrenees, occurring in association with Bison priscus and the much more abundant Cervus elaphus. Fossil remains from this site are mostly complete and not affected by human intervention, thus creating the perfect conditions for reliable osteometric analyses. Here, we quantify diagnostic morphological features of the scapula and the humerus of Cervus elaphus and Rangifer tarandus to establish the potential of these bones to aid in interspecific discrimination. In the case of the scapula, the best species discriminator is the ratio of the minimum anteroposterior diameter of the scapular neck and the development of the articular process, while the breadth of the trochlea is the best discriminator in the case of the humerus.

Fossil remains of reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) occurring outside their present range are an important indicator of formerly cold climatic conditions, but are easily confused with those of the red deer (Cervus elaphus). The locality of Kiputz IX has yielded one of the best-preserved Late Pleistocene reindeer populations of the southern Pyrenees, occurring in association with Bison priscus and the much more abundant Cervus elaphus. Fossil remains from this site are mostly complete and not affected by human intervention, thus creating the perfect conditions for reliable osteometric analyses. Here, we quantify diagnostic morphological features of the scapula and the humerus of Cervus elaphus and Rangifer tarandus to establish the potential of these bones to aid in interspecific discrimination. In the case of the scapula, the best species discriminator is the ratio of the minimum anteroposterior diameter of the scapular neck and the development of the articular process, while the breadth of the trochlea is the best discriminator in the case of the humerus.

The parameters that describe the soft tissue structures are among the most important anatomical parameters for subject-specific biomechanical modelling. In this paper, we study one of the soft tissue parameters, namely muscle attachment sites. Two new methods are proposed for transformation of the muscle attachment sites of any reference scapula to any destination scapula based on four palpable bony landmarks. The proposed methods as well as one previously proposed method have been applied for transformation of muscle attachment sites of one reference scapula to seven other scapulae. The transformation errors are compared among the three methods. Both proposed methods yield significantly less (p < 0.05) prediction error as compared to the currently available method. Furthermore, we investigate whether there exists a reference scapula that performs significantly better than other scapulae when used for transformation of muscle attachment sites. Seven different scapulae were used as reference scapula and their resulting transformation errors were compared with each other. In the considered statistical population, no such a thing as an ideal scapula was found. There was, however, one outlier scapula that performed significantly worse than the other scapulae when used as a reference. The effect of perturbations in both muscle attachment sites and other muscle properties is studied by comparing muscle force predictions of a musculoskeletal model between perturbed and non-perturbed versions of the model. It is found that 10 mm variations in muscle attachments have more significant effect on muscle force predictions than 10% variations in any of the other four analysed muscle properties.

Osteochondromas is one of the common bone tumour account for 35-46% of cases. These are most commonly seen on the metaphysis of a long bone, but they can arise from any bone which is preformed from cartilage and also involves flat bones like ilium and scapula. Scapular involvement is noted in 3 – 4.6 % of cases and patients usually are affected by winging of scapula. It is common in young patients, usually below 30 years of age, with a ratio of males to females of 2:1. We present a male patient diagnosed with solitary asymptomatic scapular osteochondroma with review of literature.

Fossil remains of reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) occurring outside their present range are an important indicator of formerly cold climatic conditions, but are easily confused with those of the red deer (Cervus elaphus). The locality of Kiputz IX has yielded one of the best-preserved Late Pleistocene reindeer populations of the southern Pyrenees, occurring in association with Bison priscus and the much more abundant Cervus elaphus. Fossil remains from this site are mostly complete and not affected by human intervention, thus creating the perfect conditions for reliable osteometric analyses. Here, we quantify diagnostic morphological features of the scapula and the humerus of Cervus elaphus and Rangifer tarandus to establish the potential of these bones to aid in interspecific discrimination. In the case of the scapula, the best species discriminator is the ratio of the minimum anteroposterior diameter of the scapular neck and the development of the articular process, while the breadth of the trochlea is the best discriminator in the case of the humerus.

Background and hypothesisRotator cuff tears are the most common injury seen by shoulder surgeons. Glenohumeral osteoarthritis develops in many late-stage rotator cuff tear patients as a result of torn cuff tendons, termed "cuff tear arthropathy." However, the mechanisms of cuff tear arthropathy have not been fully established. It has been hypothesized that a combination of synovial and mechanical factors contribute equally to the development of cuff tear arthropathy. The goal of this study was to assess the utility of this model in investigating cuff tear arthropathy.Materials and methodsWe used a rat model that accurately reflects rotator cuff muscle degradation after massive rotator cuff tears through either infraspinatus and supraspinatus tenotomy or suprascapular nerve transection. Using a modified Mankin scoring system, we found significant glenohumeral cartilage damage after both rotator cuff tenotomy and suprascapular nerve transection after only 12 weeks.ResultsCartilage degeneration was similar between groups and was present on both the humeral head and the glenoid. Denervation of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles without opening the joint capsule caused cartilage degeneration similar to that found in the tendon transection group.ConclusionsOur results suggest that altered mechanical loading after rotator cuff tears is the primary factor in cartilage degeneration after rotator cuff tears. Clinically, understanding the process of cartilage degeneration after rotator cuff injury will help guide treatment decisions in the setting of rotator cuff tears.Level of evidenceBasic science study, animal model.

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 124-133)., Includes abstract and appendices.

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 124-133)., Includes abstract and appendices.

Arthroscopic resection of the superomedial corner of the scapula was performed in 20 fresh frozen cadaveric specimens to define clinically safe and useful margins for arthroscopic bony resection. The lateral border of resection was delineated by directing the burr either toward a specifically chosen arthroscopic resection target (ART) situated equidistant between the inferior scapular angle and scapular spine or more lateral to the inferior angle of the scapula. The minimum distances between the suprascapular notch and the lateral edge of the resection were 25 mm (average, 31 mm) in the ART group and 10 mm (average, 21 mm) in the inferior angle group (P < .01). From the results of our study, we recommend a safe zone for arthroscopic removal of bone and soft tissue from the superomedial corner of the scapula. The medial border is defined by the medial scapula and scapular spine; the lateral border is drawn between Bell's portal and the ART. © 2008 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees.

Arthroscopic resection of the superomedial corner of the scapula was performed in 20 fresh frozen cadaveric specimens to define clinically safe and useful margins for arthroscopic bony resection. The lateral border of resection was delineated by directing the burr either toward a specifically chosen arthroscopic resection target (ART) situated equidistant between the inferior scapular angle and scapular spine or more lateral to the inferior angle of the scapula. The minimum distances between the suprascapular notch and the lateral edge of the resection were 25 mm (average, 31 mm) in the ART group and 10 mm (average, 21 mm) in the inferior angle group (P < .01). From the results of our study, we recommend a safe zone for arthroscopic removal of bone and soft tissue from the superomedial corner of the scapula. The medial border is defined by the medial scapula and scapular spine; the lateral border is drawn between Bell's portal and the ART. © 2008 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees.

The objective of the research was to determine the optimal location and method of attachment for accelerometer-based motion sensors, and to validate their ability to differentiate rest and increases in speed in healthy dogs moving on a treadmill. Two accelerometers were placed on a harness between the scapulae of dogs with one in a pouch and one directly attached to the harness. Two additional accelerometers were placed (pouched and not pouched) ventrally on the dog's collar. Data were recorded in 1. s epochs with dogs moving in stages lasting 3. min each on a treadmill: (1) at rest, lateral recumbency, (2) treadmill at 0% slope, 3. km/h, (3) treadmill at 0% slope, 5. km/h, (4) treadmill at 0% slope, 7. km/h, (5) treadmill at 5% slope, 5. km/h, and; (6) treadmill at 5% slope, 7. km/h. Only the harness with the accelerometer in a pouch along the dorsal midline yielded statistically significant increases (P< 0.05) in vector magnitude as walking speed of the dogs increased (5-7. km/h) while on the treadmill. Statistically significant increases in vector magnitude were detected in the dogs as the walking speed increased from 5 to 7. km/h, however, changes in vector magnitude were not detected when activity intensity was increased as a result of walking up a 5% grade. Accelerometers are a valid and objective tool able to discriminate between and monitor different levels of activity in dogs in terms of speed of movement but not in energy expenditure that occurs with movement up hill.

Background: Evaluation of scapular posture is a fundamental component in the clinical evaluation of the upper quadrant. This study examined the intrarater reliability of scapular posture ratings. Methods: A test-retest reliability investigation was undertaken with one week between assessment sessions. At each session physical therapists conducted visual assessments of scapula posture (relative to the thorax) in five different scapula postural planes (plane of scapula, sagittal plane, transverse plane, horizontal plane, and vertical plane). These five plane ratings were performed for four different scapular posture perturbating conditions (rest, isometric shoulder; flexion, abduction, and external rotation). Results. A total of 100 complete scapular posture ratings (50 left, 50 right) were undertaken at each assessment. The observed agreement between the test and retest postural plane ratings ranged from 59% to 87%; 16 of the 20 plane-condition combinations exceeded 75% observed agreement. Kappa (and prevalence adjusted bias adjusted kappa) values were inconsistent across the postural planes and perturbating conditions. Conclusions: This investigation generally revealed fair to moderate intrarater reliability in the rating of scapular posture by visual inspection. However, enough disagreement between assessments was present to warrant caution when interpreting perceived changes in scapula position between longitudinal assessments using visual inspection alone.