ARTHROSCOPY & SPORTS INJURY ASSOCIATES
OVERVIEW
What is Pectoralis Major Repair?
Pectoralis Major Repair is a surgical procedure for a tear or detachment of a pectoralis major tendon. Pectoralis major is a large chest muscle responsible for shoulder joint movement, pushing, and lifting. Rupture of the tendon may cause pain, weakness, difficulty lifting or pushing. Appropriate treatment allows to recover functionality of the tendon, develop strength and provide shoulder joint stabilization.
Key facts about Pectoralis Major Repair:
- Restoration of normal functionality of torn pectoralis major tendons
- Helps with improvement of pushing and lifting strength
- Usually recommended for large tears or complete detachment
- Timely treatment allows to promote positive outcomes
Pectoralis Major Repair is a surgical procedure for a tear or detachment of a pectoralis major tendon. Pectoralis major is a large chest muscle responsible for shoulder joint movement, pushing, and lifting. Rupture of the tendon may cause pain, weakness, difficulty lifting or pushing. Appropriate treatment allows to recover functionality of the tendon, develop strength and provide shoulder joint stabilization.
Key facts about Pectoralis Major Repair:
- Restoration of normal functionality of torn pectoralis major tendons
- Helps with improvement of pushing and lifting strength
- Usually recommended for large tears or complete detachment
- Timely treatment allows to promote positive outcomes
Surgeons Available for Consultations
Dr. Karnav Panchal
M.B.B.S, M.S. (Orthopedics),
FAOS (South Korea)
Consultant Arthroscopist & Sports Injury Specialist Consultant Joint Replacement Surgeon
Dr. Aniket Gupta
M.B.B.S, M.S. (Orthopedics),
MRCS (Edinburgh)
Training & Qualifications Fellowship in MRCS (UK) Arthroscopy & Arthroplasty (Milan, Italy)
Consultant Physiotherapist
Dr. Aarsh Bhatt
B.P.T,M.P.T (Cardio-Respiratory Disorders) MIAP , HCPC (UK) , DHA (UAE)
Consultant Physiotherapist
Dr. Hetvi Dimothe
BPT , M.P.T (Rehabilitation) MIAP, HCPC (UK) , DHA (UAE)
Consultant Physiotherapist
Causes
What Causes a Pectoralis Major Tear?
Causes
What Causes a Pectoralis Major Tear?
A pectoralis major tear occurs due to a high load of stress on the muscle or tendon during an activity. Weightlifting, sport injuries, sudden movements of the arm and any other injury may result in such a condition. Typically, the rupture occurs during stretching of the arm in load state. Depending on the extent of the tear, the tendon may be ruptured partially or completely causing pain, weakness and poor upper body performance.
Reasons of Pectoralis Major Tears:
- Weightlifting and stress of the tendons in the chest area
- Sport injuries with intense arm and shoulder joint movement
- Traumatic events leading to tear or rupture of the tendon
- Activities that have an effect on the muscle and tendon
- Strain during pushing or resistance training
Other structures that may be affected with a Pectoralis Major Tear
In case of a pectoralis major tear, neighboring structures are also exposed to stress or damage. The chest and shoulder joint cooperate, therefore any injuries may influence on adjacent structures providing stability and strength. Depending on the extent of the injury, the adjacent muscles, tendons, and other supporting structures may be strained or irritated causing pain, weakness and limitation of movements.
- Shoulder joint stabilizing muscles
- Adjacent chest muscles
- Tendons of the upper arm
- Ligaments of the shoulder joint
- Tendon attachment sites
- Adjacent soft tissues
SYMPTOMS
What are the Symptoms of a Pectoralis Major Tear?
Symptoms typically occur suddenly during activity and may seriously impair upper body strength. Patients usually complain about pain, weakness, bruising and difficulties with performing normal actions.
Sudden Chest Pain
Pain arises during injury and becomes more intensive during movement of the arm.
Loss of Strength
Complete tearing of the tendon significantly decreases pushing strength of the patient.
Visible Bruising
Bruising and swelling may occur near the chest, shoulder joint or the upper arm.
Neglect of the symptoms may result in chronic weakness, poor upper body functionality, tendon retraction and complicated recovery.
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Arm Weakness
The injured arm experiences pain and weakness during activity.
Swelling
Swelling may appear at the injury site.
Limited Movements
Performing some shoulder joint and arm movements become difficult.
Activity Limitation
Daily tasks become more difficult and limited.
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BOOK CONSULTATIONDIAGNOSIS
How Do Doctors Diagnose a Pectoralis Major Tear?
Diagnosis is made by a doctor based on symptomatology, injury history, and testing of the upper body functionality. During the physical examination of a patient, a doctor evaluates strength, mobility, tenderness, presence of the bruise and other factors concerning chest and shoulder joint. Using imaging, doctors confirm the tear and evaluate its extent. At ALIGN ASIA clinic, the detailed examination allows to determine the degree of tendon damage and develop a treatment plan.
DIAGNOSIS
How Do Doctors Diagnose a Pectoralis Major Tear?
Diagnosis is made by a doctor based on symptomatology, injury history, and testing of the upper body functionality. During the physical examination of a patient, a doctor evaluates strength, mobility, tenderness, presence of the bruise and other factors concerning chest and shoulder joint. Using imaging, doctors confirm the tear and evaluate its extent. At ALIGN ASIA clinic, the detailed examination allows to determine the degree of tendon damage and develop a treatment plan.
Diagnostic methods of Pectoralis Major Tears:
- Physical examination of strength, movements, tenderness and function of the upper body
- Imaging for estimation of tendon damage and injury severity
- MRI
- Ultrasound
TREATMENT
What is the Treatment for a Pectoralis Major Tear?
Treatment is selected depending on the extent of the injury, changing of the symptomatology, activity level and extent of tendon damage.
Timely treatment will reduce symptoms, protect other structures and promote recovery. The treatment should be systematic involving rehabilitation, activities adjustment and gradual recovery allowing development of strength and functionality.
Pain Relief
Relief from pain and swelling
Activities Adjustment
Protection of torn structures
Physiotherapy
Improvement of mobility and strength
Tendon Rehabilitation
Promotion of healing
Surgical Repair
Restoration of tendon attachment
NON-SURGICAL CARE
How is a Pectoralis Major Tear Treated Without Surgery?
NON-SURGICAL CARE
How is a Pectoralis Major Tear Treated Without Surgery?
Not all tears require a surgical intervention. Some patients can be treated non-operatively especially in cases of partial tears and low activity demands. The main goal of this method is reduction of pain, improvement of mobility, development of strength and healing of the tendon. Physiotherapy, activities adjustment and rehabilitation program allow to return to daily activities and preserve upper body functionality.
Non-operative treatment methods include:
- Physiotherapy for improvement of mobility, strengthening of surrounding muscles and restoration of movement pattern
- Activities adjustment for reduction of the load on the injured tendon and recovery promotion
- Anti-inflammatory drugs for reduction of pain and participation in rehabilitation
- Specific exercise programs for improvement of flexibility, stability and strength for long-term recovery
When is Pectoralis Major Repair Required?
When is Pectoralis Major Repair Required?
Do not neglect the pectoralis major tear. Untreated injuries may severely impair strength, functionality and performance. Some patients recover by using conservative treatment, however, in some cases, it requires a surgical intervention. Early examination allows to select the proper treatment option preventing further retraction of the tendon and loss of upper body functionality.
Timely treatment allows to improve recovery, increase strength and reduce complications.
- Complete tears significantly affect upper body strength
- Chronic weakness impairs work and activities
- Persisting symptoms limit lifting and pushing
- Delayed treatment reduces chances for successful repair
Pectoralis major repair may be required in case of persisting symptoms despite the treatment or significant tendon damage.
SURGERY
What is Pectoralis Major Repair Surgery?
Pectoralis Major Repair is a surgery aimed to reattach torn tendon to the normal place. The aim of the procedure is restoring of strength, improvement of upper body functionality, reduction of symptoms and promotion of recovery. The modern technique is focused on the maximum tendon fixation and protection of adjacent structures. At ALIGN ASIA Clinic, the treatment is tailored according to the injury extent, activity level and specific of recovery.
Techniques used in the Pectoralis Major Repair:
- Planned incision to access the tendon
- Identification and preparation of the torn tendon for repair
- Suture-anchor or bone tunnel fixation technique
- Checking for any damaged tissue and removal of it
- Special fixation technique to attach the tendon to the attachment site
- Testing of repair strength and position of the tendon during surgery
- Closure of the incisions and instructions for postoperative rehabilitation
SURGERY
What is Pectoralis Major Repair Surgery?
Pectoralis Major Repair is a surgery aimed to reattach torn tendon to the normal place. The aim of the procedure is restoring of strength, improvement of upper body functionality, reduction of symptoms and promotion of recovery. The modern technique is focused on the maximum tendon fixation and protection of adjacent structures. At ALIGN ASIA Clinic, the treatment is tailored according to the injury extent, activity level and specific of recovery.
Techniques used in the Pectoralis Major Repair:
- Planned incision to access the tendon
- Identification and preparation of the torn tendon for repair
- Suture-anchor or bone tunnel fixation technique
- Checking for any damaged tissue and removal of it
- Special fixation technique to attach the tendon to the attachment site
- Testing of repair strength and position of the tendon during surgery
- Closure of the incisions and instructions for postoperative rehabilitation
COMPLICATIONS
What are the Possible Complications of a Pectoralis Major Tear or Its Treatment?
Complications may occur, however, they are not typical for every patient. These complications arise in case of developing of the tear or during treatment and recovery. Almost all possible complications may be managed by timely discovery and appropriate treatment. Regular follow-ups, rehabilitation and timely medical assistance allow to reduce risks and promote strength, functionality and recovery.
Chronic Weakness
Chronic weakness affects lifting and upper body functionality.
Poor Muscle Functionality
Injury of the tendon may impair movements of chest and shoulder joints.
Shoulder Joint Stiffness
Limited movements occur during healing and rehabilitation period.
Recurrent Tendon Injury
Excessive strain may increase the risk of further tendon injuries.
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RECOVERY & OUTCOMES
What is the Recovery Process after Pectoralis Major Repair?
RECOVERY & OUTCOMES
What is the Recovery Process after Pectoralis Major Repair?
Recovery after Pectoralis Major Repair is a gradual process requiring active involvement in rehabilitation, physiotherapy and follow-up care. Duration of healing is determined by extent of the injury, complexity of the repair and personal recovery characteristics. The aim of the rehabilitation is protection of the repair, improvement of mobility, strengthening and functionality of upper body. Systematic rehabilitation allows patients to return to daily activities and improve shoulder joint and chest performance.
Recovery process stages:
- Beginning with protection and limitation of movements
- Gradual mobility exercises under the control of the specialist
- Progressive strengthening of the chest, shoulder joint and surrounding muscles
- Physiotherapy for improvement of mobility and function
AFTERCARE
Recovery & Aftercare for Pectoralis Major Repair
AFTERCARE
Recovery & Aftercare for Pectoralis Major Repair
Proper aftercare is necessary to achieve successful recovery after the pectoralis major repair surgery. Regular rehabilitation helps in tendon healing, improvement of mobility, strengthening and prevention of reinjuries. Strict following of the recommendations of medical specialists during recovery process provides protection of repair and safe returning to daily activities and upper body performance.
Steps of the aftercare:
- Use of the prescribed supporting devices in the first days after the surgery
- Regular attending of physiotherapy for improvement of function
- Performing rehabilitation exercises precisely as prescribed
FAQ'S
Do You Have Any Question?
Some partial tears may be healed by rehabilitation, however, the complete tears require surgical treatment.
Recovery period is individual and depends on extent of the injury, complexity of repair and rehabilitation.
Returning to sports is individual and depends on the healing process, strength and recommendations of your clinician.
Pectoralis major repair is a widespread procedure and it is safe when performed by specialists.
Strict following of rehabilitation and avoidance of excess strain help to reduce the risk of further tears.
