Georgi Luchev; Ahmed Al-Sadek; Svetoslav A. Slavchev; Boycho Landzhov; Lyubomir Gaydarski & Georgi P. Georgiev

Summary

The supracondylar process (SP) of the humerus is a rare congenital bony projection occurring in approximately 0.5– 2.7 % of individuals. Arising from the anteromedial distal humeral shaft, the SP may form a fibro-osseous tunnel with the ligament of Struthers, potentially compressing the median nerve or brachial artery and producing “supracondylar process syndrome.” Although often asymptomatic and incidentally detected, the SP can mimic a tumor, or aberrant ossification, creating diagnostic challenges. We present a 17-year-old male with an incidental SP identified following minor trauma. We made a brief literature review that highlights the evolutionary context of the SP, its morphologic variations, clinical complications, fracture patterns, imaging characteristics, and management strategies. Enhanced awareness of this vestigial structure can prevent misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate treatment in symptomatic cases. KEY WORDS: Supracondylar process; Humerus; Radiology; Clinical significance; Review.

How to cite this article

LUCHEV, G.; AL-SADEK, A.; SLAVCHEV, S.A. LANDZHOV, B.; GAYDARSKI, L. & GEORGIEV, G. P. The supracondylar process of the humerus: Clinical implications of a rare vestigial structure – Case report and comprehensive literature review. Int. J. Morphol., 44(2):498-502, 2026.