Pectoralis Major Muscle Rupture
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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A rupture of the pectoralis major muscle (pec major) is a rare but serious injury that occurs in athletes, weightlifters, bodybuilders, and generally in people who lift heavy weights. The pectoralis major extends from the sternum to the humerus and is located in the chest area.
Pectoralis Major Muscle Rupture – Aetiology
The rupture occurs more commonly in men – especially in those who lift heavy weights. Bench press exercises are associated with a higher incidence of rupture. However, the pectoralis major can also rupture following a high-energy injury (such as a road traffic accident), or from a direct blow to the chest – such as during a tackle in football.
It can occur in both men and women, but it is more common in men due to their greater muscle mass and participation in high-impact sports.
Pectoralis Major Muscle Rupture – Symptoms
The most common symptoms include:
Sudden, sharp pain in the chest or upper arm at the time of injury.
Swelling and bruising around the chest and upper arm.
A visible or palpable gap in the muscle or a bulge in the armpit.
Weakness and reduced range of motion of the affected upper limb.
A snapping sound and the sensation that something has torn at the time of injury.
Deformity in the chest area. In the area of the rupture, the nipple is displaced downwards.
Pectoralis Major Muscle Rupture: Diagnosis
A patient with a chest injury requires assessment by an Orthopaedic Surgeon. Dr Leonidou will take a detailed medical history and examine you. The doctor may perform an ultrasound scan and will discuss the recommended treatment options with you. In some cases, further investigations such as plain X-rays may be required to investigate other possible causes of the symptoms. For the final diagnosis, an MRI scan will be required to demonstrate the tear, its location, and its severity.
Conservative treatment is usually recommended for older individuals without high functional demands or for patients with a significant medical history who are unable to undergo surgery. Surgical repair is recommended for all other patients.
Surgical Treatment – How Is the Tendon Repaired?
Surgical repair should ideally be performed as soon as possible after the tendon rupture. Over time, the tendon tends to retract medially, which is why repair of the rupture should not be delayed. During surgery, the tendon is reattached to the anatomical site from which it was torn using sutures and special buttons. The technique is minimally invasive and is performed through an incision approximately 4 cm long. There are usually no external sutures (plastic closure). Hospitalisation is not required, and patients return home a few hours after surgery. Postoperatively, an individualised rehabilitation protocol is followed to ensure a full return to work, daily activities, and sports.
Pectoralis Major Rupture – When Can I Lift Weights?
After surgery, it is recommended to avoid lifting weights for 3–6 months. Take the necessary time to recover and do not return to training until you have fully recovered, in order to avoid recurrence. When returning to your sport, it is important to gradually increase the intensity and the amount of weight, always combined with a proper warm-up and stretching.
If you have sustained a chest injury, consult the specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Andreas Leonidou. For more information and appointments, please contact us.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.