On examination the patient was found to have a winged right scapula

Following surgical removal of a firm nodular cancer swelling in the right breast and exploration of the right axilla, on examination the patient was found to have a winged right scapula. Most likely this could have occured due to injury to the-

1.Subscapular muscle
2.Coracoid process of scapula
3.Long thoracic nerve
4.Circumflex scapular artery

exp:

Most common cause of winging of scapula is paralysis of serratus anterior. Long thoracic nerve innervates Serratus anterior. Serratus anterior originates from outer surface of upper 8 ribs and inserts onto inferior angle and medial border of scapula.

Actions

  •    It rotates the scapula to help in overhead abduction.
    
  •    Steady the scapula to carry weight.
    
  •    Pushing of arm forward in horizontal position.
    
  •    Helps in forced inspiration.