[Rupture of the pectoralis major muscle--case study and review of the literature].

Rupture of the pectoralis major muscle is a rare injury. In total 125 cases of complete and uncomplete ruptures are reported. This injury is the result of excessive muscle tension, a direct blow or a combination of both. In a case study the aetiology, diagnostic, treatment and functional outcome of complete muscle ruptures are shown. The reported results of 14 cases who underwent conservative and 51 cases with surgical treatment were classified and analysed. Conservative management is recommended for partial and proximal ruptures. Distal ruptures of the musculo-tendinous or tendinous insertion in active patients should be treated surgically to return previous muscle strength and contour.