Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Knotless Independent Double-Row Repair and Biceps Augmentation for Anterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears
Published on: January 23, 2026
Pectoralis major tendon rupture. Surgical procedures review
Giovanni Merolla1, Paolo Paladini, Fabrizio Campi
1Unit of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, D. Cervesi Hospital, Cattolica, Italy.
Abstract:
Pectoralis major (PM) muscle is the powerful dynamic stabiliser of the shoulder that acts as a flexor, adductor and internal rotator. The rupture of the PM tendon is a relatively rare injury that was firstly described in a French boy by Patissier in 1822 and later, in 1861, by Letenneur who reported another similiar case. To date, over 200 cases have been published. In this article we describe the clinical anatomy and the mechanism of injuries of PM and we review the surgical procedures for acute and chronic ruptures.
Insights
Pectoralis major tendon ruptures are rare shoulder injuries. This review covers their clinical anatomy, injury mechanisms, and surgical repair options for acute and chronic cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Anatomy
Background:
- The Pectoralis Major (PM) muscle is a key shoulder stabilizer, involved in flexion, adduction, and internal rotation.
- Ruptures of the PM tendon are uncommon injuries, with historical documentation dating back to the early 19th century.
- Over 200 cases of PM tendon rupture have been reported in medical literature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the clinical anatomy of the Pectoralis Major muscle.
- To elucidate the common mechanisms leading to Pectoralis Major tendon injuries.
- To review current surgical techniques for managing both acute and chronic Pectoralis Major tendon ruptures.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing medical literature on Pectoralis Major tendon ruptures.
- Analysis of anatomical structures and biomechanics related to the PM muscle.
- Compilation and synthesis of surgical procedures for PM tendon repair.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of Pectoralis Major muscle anatomy and its role in shoulder function.
- Identification of typical injury mechanisms, often associated with forceful eccentric contractions.
- Overview of surgical approaches for acute and chronic PM tendon tears.
Conclusions:
- Understanding PM anatomy and injury mechanisms is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
- Surgical intervention is often necessary for restoring function after Pectoralis Major tendon rupture.
- A review of surgical procedures provides valuable information for clinicians managing these injuries.
More Related Videos
07:10Modified Long Head of Biceps Tendon Rerouting and Fixation as Partial Capsular Reconstruction for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
Published on: March 6, 2026
07:22Arthroscopic Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Whole Rotator Cable Reconstruction Using Proximal Biceps Tendon Autograft
Published on: June 6, 2025
Related Concept Videos
Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations: