Deformity of which bone results in Sprengel's shoulder?

GMCH Chandigarh - 2022

Applied Anatomy

Easy

Appeared in: GMCH Chandigarh - 2022

Explanation

Sprengel's shoulder, also known as congenital high scapula, is a deformity caused by the failure of the scapula (shoulder blade) to descend properly during fetal development.
In early embryonic life, the scapula is located high in the neck region (cervical spine area) and gradually moves down to its normal position in the upper back (thoracic region).
When this descent is incomplete, the scapula remains in an abnormally high position, leading to the characteristic features of the deformity.
This results in a visible cosmetic deformity, as seen in the image, and often limits shoulder movement, particularly abduction (lifting the arm out to the side).

Option B: The radius is one of the two long bones of the forearm, extending from the elbow to the thumb side of the wrist. It is not involved in the structure of the shoulder girdle.
Option C: The ulna is the other long bone of the forearm, located on the side of the little finger. Like the radius, it is part of the forearm and wrist, not the shoulder.
Option D: The tibia, or shin bone, is the main bone of the lower leg, connecting the knee with the ankle bones. It has no anatomical relation to the shoulder.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Etiology of Sprengel's shoulder deformity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must assess for functional limitations, especially reduced shoulder abduction, which can impact a child's ability to perform activities of daily living.
It is crucial to check for associated anomalies, as Sprengel's deformity is often linked with Klippel-Feil syndrome (fused cervical vertebrae), scoliosis, and kidney or heart problems.
Post-operative nursing care after corrective surgery (e.g., Woodward procedure) involves pain management, neurovascular checks of the affected arm, and enforcing immobilization with a sling or brace.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the question stem, which asks for the bone associated with 'Sprengel's shoulder'.
If an image is provided, observe the key features. In this case, the image shows one shoulder blade positioned significantly higher than the other.
Connect the clinical term 'Sprengel's shoulder' with its definition, which is a congenital high scapula.
Identify the anatomical term for the shoulder blade, which is the 'scapula'.
Scan the options to find 'Scapula'.
Eliminate the other options by identifying their anatomical locations: Radius and Ulna are in the forearm, and the Tibia is in the lower leg.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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