Pectoralis major ruptures typically occur in men between the ages of 20-40. They are most often caused by sudden eccentric force. If enough of the tendon pulls away then surgery may be required to bring the tendon back to its normal insertion point on the humerus.
This is an uncommon acute injury caused by avulsion of the pectoralis major tendon (from the humeral insertion on the arm) and is commonly seen in weightlifters. The tendon may rupture off the bone, through the tendon body or at the muscle-tendon junction. The sternocostal head of the pectoralis major tenon is the most common site of rupture.
These tears almost exclusively occur in males and are frequently seen in weightlifters. Anabolic steroid use is a recognised risk factor for tendon rupture.
Diagnosis is generally made on history and examination; and is confirmed with an MRI scan.
Patients may report a sudden pop or tearing sensation with resisted adduction and internal rotation. This leads to pain and weakness of the shoulder.
Examination will show swelling and bruising over the chest wall and upper arm. The “dropped nipple” sign is classic for a pectoralis major tendon rupture – the affected nipple sits lower than the unaffected side. There may be a palpable defect and loss of anterior axillary (armpit) contour. There is often pronounced weakness in adduction and internal rotation.
Imagingplain X-rays are often normal. An MRI scan is the most useful test and can locate the tear, assess retraction and define whether the tear is partial thickness or full thickness. Generally, full-thickness tears can be diagnosed clinically and partial thickness tears will be seen on MRI.
Surgery is the preferred option for those with full thickness acute tears that want a reliable outcome with restoration of function. The outcomes after surgery are reliable in strength recovery, return to sport, and patient satisfaction.
Dr Sushil Pant is a leading Australian trained orthopaedic shoulder surgeon. He is the founder and medical director of the Sydney Shoulder Unit; and is a Shoulder Surgeon at Sydney Sports Medicine Centre at Sydney Olympic Park.
Enquiries between 8am-6pm (Mon-Fri) will be responded to within 30-60 minutes.
"*" indicates required fields
Alternatively, if you have any further questions or would like a consultation with Dr Pant get in touch:
Dr Sushil Pant is a leading Australian trained Orthopaedic Shoulder Surgeon. He is the founder and medical director of the Sydney Shoulder Unit; and is a Shoulder Surgeon at Sydney Sports Medicine Centre at Sydney Olympic Park.
1. Medicare Number
2. Position on card
3. Expiry Date
