A rare anatomic variant of the superior glenohumeral ligament.

Abstract

The attachment of the superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL) to the upper pole of the glenoid is variable and 3 types have been described. We report an anatomic variant of SGHL attachment to the upper pole of the glenoid that has not heretofore been reported in the literature. In this case, the SGHL overrode the biceps origin, continued to the superior labrum posteriorly, and had no attachment to the middle glenohumeral ligament or the anterior labrum. This variant was detected during routine arthroscopic examination undertaken before surgery on a rotator cuff tear.