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RUPTURE OF THE PECTORALIS MAJOR MUSCLE: SURGICAL TREATMENT IN ATHLETES



Abstract

Introduction and Aims: Pectoralis major tendon rupture is a relatively rare injury, resulting from violent, eccentric contraction of the muscle. Over 50percent of these injuries occur in athletes, classically in weight-lifters during bench press.

Method: In this study, 13 cases of rupture of the pectoralis major muscle in athletes are presented. All patients underwent surgical repair. Physical findings and surgical technique are described. Magnetic resonance imaging was used in the diagnosis of all patients. Intra-operative findings correlated with the reported scans in 11 patients with minor differences in two patients.

Results: During follow-up examination, six patients had excellent results, six had good results and one had a fair result. Eleven patients could return to sports activity at their pre-operative level.

Among our patients we emphasise that of an orthopaedic resident who suffered a rupture of his pectoralis major tendon as an unusual complication of closed manipulation of an anterior shoulder dislocation.

Conclusion: According to the literature and our experience, we suggest that only surgical repair of the pectoralis major rupture will result in complete recovery and restoration of the full strength of the muscle, which is essential for the active athlete.

These abstracts were prepared by Editorial Secretary, George Sikorski. Correspondence should be addressed to Australian Orthopaedic Association, Ground Floor, The William Bland Centre, 229 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia.

At least one of the authors is receiving or has received material benefits or support from a commercial source.