The serratus posterior superior muscle is a thin, quadrilateral muscle of the posterior thorax. It extends from the vertebrae to the ribs and aids in deep inspiration.
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Summary
- origin: ligamentum nuchae, spinous processes of C7-T3 and supraspinous ligament
- insertion: superior border of 2nd to 5th ribs
- innervation: 2nd to 5th intercostal nerves
- arterial supply: intercostal arteries
- action: elevates ribs
Gross anatomy
The serratus posterior superior muscle forms from a thin, broad aponeurosis which is attached to the lower part of the ligamentum nuchae, spinous processes of C7 to T3 vertebrae, and intervening supraspinous ligament. It passes inferolaterally and inserts onto the superior border, just lateral to the angles of the 2nd to 5th ribs 1-3.
Innervation
The serratus posterior superior muscle is innervated by the 2nd to 5th intercostal nerves 3.
Action
This muscle elevates the superior ribs which aids in inspiration.
Variant anatomy
- may originate from the spinous processes of C7 and upper two or three thoracic vertebrae 1
- may insert onto the 2nd to 4th or 2nd to 5th ribs 3
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