Pectoralis major

Musculus pectoralis major

A large, fan-shaped muscle of the anterior chest wall. It has clavicular and sternocostal heads originating from the clavicle, sternum, and upper costal cartilages. The fibers converge to insert on the lateral lip of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus.

Type Muscle
Body System Muscular
Body Region Thorax
Parent Structure muscle of shoulder
Latin Name Musculus pectoralis major
FMA ID 9627

Function

A powerful adductor, flexor, and medial rotator of the arm at the shoulder. Essential for pushing movements, climbing, and arm-swinging activities.

Clinical Significance

Pectoralis major rupture occurs during heavy bench pressing. Poland syndrome involves congenital absence of the pectoralis major. The muscle is used in pectoralis major flap reconstructive surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pectoralis major?
A large, fan-shaped muscle of the anterior chest wall. It has clavicular and sternocostal heads originating from the clavicle, sternum, and upper costal cartilages. The fibers converge to insert on the lateral lip of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus.
What is the function of the Pectoralis major?
A powerful adductor, flexor, and medial rotator of the arm at the shoulder. Essential for pushing movements, climbing, and arm-swinging activities.
What body system is the Pectoralis major part of?
The Pectoralis major is part of the Muscular.
What conditions affect the Pectoralis major?
Pectoralis major rupture occurs during heavy bench pressing. Poland syndrome involves congenital absence of the pectoralis major. The muscle is used in pectoralis major flap reconstructive surgery.
Where is the Pectoralis major located?
The Pectoralis major is located in the Thorax region of the body.

Related Structures

anterior internodal tract anterior internodal fasciculus aponeurosis aponeuroses atrioventricular node A-V node Bachmann's bundle anterior interatrial band Biceps brachii Musculus biceps brachii bundle of His A-V bundle cardiac muscle tissue of myocardium cardiac Purkinje fiber cardiac Purkinje fiber

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