Pectoralis major tendon ruptures: when to operate
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4, Ireland
- 2Department of Accident and Emergency, St Vincent's University Hospital
- Correspondence to: Mr Quinlan, “Rockley”, Avoca Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin, Ireland; jfquinlan{at}hotmail.com
- Accepted 19 December 2001
Abstract
The treatment of pectoralis major tendon ruptures has been the subject of much debate. The classical history of the injury is forced abduction and external rotation. The cases of two patients (an amateur rugby union player and a recreational snowboarder) are reported. The diagnosis was made by clinical examination in both patients, and both were operated on more than two weeks after injury. After surgery and a graduated rehabilitation programme, both men were able to return to their sporting activities. These two cases highlight the advantage of operative management in this uncommon condition.
