Overview
A flat, elongated muscle of the neck lying between the trapezius (dorsally) and the brachiocephalicus (ventrally). It is one of the muscles that attach the thoracic limb to the trunk. Classic feline anatomy texts call it levator scapulae ventralis or levator claviculae.
Origin and insertion
- On the scapula: metacromion and distal part of the spine of the scapula.
- In the neck: wing of the atlas (transverse process).
Action
Advances the thoracic limb. With the limb fixed, bends the neck to the same side.
Clinical relevance
Together with the brachiocephalicus it covers the superficial cervical lymph nodes, which are palpated cranial to the scapula.