Scapula revisited: new features identified and denoted by terms using consensus method of Delphi and taxonomy panel to be implemented in radiological and surgical practice
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The scapula structures that have not yet been assigned by anatomical terms generate a challenge in clinical diagnostics and surgical application as well as in scientific observation. The aim of this study was to solve the lack in terminology concerning the scapula and the scapular region.
METHODS: Observation and description of 29 structures were carried on both dry scapulae and radiographs of the shoulder joint. In addition, several terms commonly encountered throughout the literature concerning the scapula were revised.
Degree of consensus was reached by using Delphi method surveying the opinion of 21 invited experts in the field. Taxonomy panels and etymology of anatomical terminology was considered in the generation of the proposed terms.
RESULTS: The scapula was redefined as a lamina with projecting processes and several landmarks demarcating certain newly defined topographical spaces were highlighted via two rounds of Delphi systematic voting and discussion. The overall level of the peer nominee's consensus was high.
Few terms received neutral opinion. CONCLUSIONS: This study communicates a proposal of 16 new terms defining grossly visible structures on the scapula that have not been described yet by officially recognized terms, including a call to unify 13 previously contributed terms that have not been codified and are often used interchangeably within different surgical and scientific fields.
Incorporating these terms into the anatomical nomenclature would facilitate communication accuracy and eliminate ambiguity among clinicians, surgeons and anatomists.