Suprascapular Artery Variability in a Zambian Cadaveric Population: Anatomical Observations and Their Clinical Significance

Introduction The suprascapular artery typically arises from the thyrocervical trunk and traverses above the superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL). However, numerous variations in its origin and course have been documented, some of which may predispose individuals to suprascapular neuropathy or complicate surgical procedures of the neck and shoulder region. This study aimed to identify variations in the origin and course of the suprascapular artery in a Zambian cadaveric population. Materials and methods A descriptive cadaveric study was conducted over two years on 66 upper limbs from 33 embalmed cadavers of Zambian origin at Texila American University, Lusaka. Standard anatomical dissection techniques following Grant's Dissector were used to expose the suprascapular artery, vein, and nerve. Ethical approval was obtained prior to conducting the study. Results Among the 66 upper limbs examined, one cadaver (1.5%) demonstrated an anomalous origin of the right suprascapular artery from the third part of the subclavian artery. In the same cadaver, both right and left suprascapular arteries exhibited an anomalous subligamentous course, passing beneath the STSL along with the suprascapular nerve (3%, 2/66). The left suprascapular artery, however, originated from the thyrocervical trunk and followed a normal proximal trajectory before deviating into an atypical subligamentous pathway at the suprascapular notch. In the remaining 32 cadavers, the suprascapular artery originated from the thyrocervical trunk and followed the typical suprascapular pathway above the STSL. No additional anatomical variations were observed in the suprascapular Discussion Although variations in the origin and course of the suprascapular artery have been previously reported, the coexistence of an anomalous origin with a bilateral subligamentous course is rare. Passage of the artery beneath the STSL may contribute to suprascapular nerve entrapment and can increase the risk of iatrogenic injury during neck dissections, clavicular surgeries, and shoulder procedures. Understanding such anatomical variations is crucial for clinicians managing unexplained shoulder pain, performing regional anesthesia, or operating in the cervicoscapular region. Conclusion This study identified a rare combination of variations involving anomalous origin and bilateral subligamentous course of the suprascapular artery in a Zambian cadaver from among 66 upper limbs examined from a total of 33 cadavers,. Although based on a limited sample, these findings emphasize the need for awareness of vascular variations in the suprascapular region to prevent diagnostic errors and surgical complications.