Triangular space

Anatomical region of the human body

Triangular space

The triangular space is an anatomical region of the upper limb, specifically located in the shoulder area. It is one of the several spaces formed by the muscles and bones of the shoulder, and it is important for its role in allowing the passage of neurovascular structures.

Anatomy

The triangular space is bordered by the following structures:

• Superiorly by the teres minor muscle.
• Inferiorly by the teres major muscle.
• Laterally by the long head of the triceps brachii muscle.

The triangular space does not contain any major nerves or arteries, but it allows the passage of the circumflex scapular artery, which is a branch of the subscapular artery.

Function

The primary function of the triangular space is to provide a passageway for the circumflex scapular artery. This artery supplies blood to the scapular region, contributing to the vascular network that supports the shoulder muscles and surrounding tissues.

Clinical significance

The triangular space is of clinical importance because it can be involved in certain shoulder pathologies. For instance, compression or injury to the structures passing through or near this space can lead to vascular compromise or contribute to shoulder pain syndromes.

Related anatomical spaces

The triangular space is often discussed in conjunction with other nearby anatomical spaces, such as:

• The quadrangular space, which transmits the axillary nerve and the posterior circumflex humeral artery.
• The triangular interval, which allows passage of the radial nerve and the profunda brachii artery.

Related pages

• Shoulder anatomy
• Axillary space
• Teres major
• Teres minor

Gallery

• Diagram showing the axillary spaces, including the triangular space.
  Diagram showing the axillary spaces, including the triangular space.
• Illustration of the scapular and circumflex arteries.
  Illustration of the scapular and circumflex arteries.
• Anatomical spaces of the shoulder region.
  Anatomical spaces of the shoulder region.

References

• Moore, Keith L.; Dalley, Arthur F.; Agur, Anne M. R. (2013). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 7th edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
• Drake, Richard L.; Vogl, Wayne; Mitchell, Adam W. M. (2014). Gray's Anatomy for Students. 3rd edition. Churchill Livingstone.