[Sonoanatomy of the muscles and fascia spaces of the pectoral regions].

BACKGROUND

Aim of the study was to work out a reliable method for the ultrasonographic evaluation of the pectoral region.

METHODS

The study was performed in 20 cadaver specimens and 20 healthy volunteers as well as in 10 patients with disorders of the pectoral region.

RESULTS

For examination of the pectoralis major muscle, the landmark for the positioning of the ultrasound transducer was found to be the lateral border of the anterior axillary fold in the direction of the tip of the coracoid process. Tilting the probe medially, the fibres of the pectoralis major muscle become visible in longitudinal alignment. The main part of the clavicular portion of the pectoralis major muscle can be visualised by moving the probe parallel to this position. Tilting the probe downwards, both the internal part of the clavicular portion, the sterno-costal and the abdominal portion are evaluated. For examination of the pectoralis minor muscle, the probe is positioned between the tip of the coracoid process and the sternal angle. Thus the whole muscle can be examined with a single sweep of the transducer. In all the specimens, probands and patients of our group, both muscle, fascias and pathological lesions could be clearly depicted.

SUMMARY

Based on the introduction of standard examination planes, the pectoral region can be evaluated in detail using ultrasonography. Lesions and pathologic changes can be reliably appointed to individual anatomical structures.