UMEM Educational Pearls

Title: Pectoralis Major Rupture

Category: Orthopedics

Keywords: Shoulder pain, muscle injury (PubMed Search)

Posted: 3/10/2018 by Brian Corwell, MD (Updated: 12/26/2024)
Click here to contact Brian Corwell, MD

Pectoralis Major Rupture

Most commonly seen in male weightlifters

Usually occurs as a tendon avulsion

Incidence is increasing

Hx: Sudden, sharp, tearing sensation with pain and weakness with arm movement

PE: Palpable defect and deformity of anterior axillary fold. Bruising and swelling.

Deformity may not be obvious with arm by side and relaxed

Testing: Weakness with ADDuction and internal rotation

Treatment: Operative treatment has better outcomes but depends on patient subgroups

Nonoperative treatment generally indicated for partial ruptures and tears in the body of the pec and muscle tendon junction

Sling, ice and pain control.

Operative treatment generally for high demand patients (athletes) and bony avulsion injuries