Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Volume 13, Issue 3 , Pages 255-261, July 2009

The pectoral fascia: Anatomical and histological study

  • Antonio Stecco

      Affiliations

    • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Padova, Italy
    • ,
  • Stefano Masiero

      Affiliations

    • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Padova, Italy
    • ,
  • Veronica Macchi

      Affiliations

    • Section of Anatomy, Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Via A Gabelli 65, Padova 35127, Italy
    • ,
  • Carla Stecco

      Affiliations

    • Section of Anatomy, Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Via A Gabelli 65, Padova 35127, Italy
    • ,
  • Andrea Porzionato

      Affiliations

    • Section of Anatomy, Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Via A Gabelli 65, Padova 35127, Italy
    • ,
  • Raffaele De Caro, MD

      Affiliations

    • Section of Anatomy, Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Via A Gabelli 65, Padova 35127, Italy
    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Tel.: +390498272327; fax: +390498272319.

Received 28 March 2008; received in revised form 20 April 2008; accepted 22 April 2008.

Summary 

Aim

Analysis of the pectoral fascia from a macroscopic and histological point of view.

Results

The pectoral fascia appears as a thin collagen layer (mean thickness of 297μm) formed by undulated collagen fibres and many elastic fibres, within which small nerves are highlighted. Numerous septa detach from its internal surface, creating an intimate connection between the fascia and the pectoralis major muscle.

Discussion

The pectoral fascia and the pectoralis major muscle should be considered together, given that the anatomical base is effectively a myofascial unit, term that defines the muscles and the fascia of a specific region that have a precise functional organization. The capacity of force transmission between the inferior and superior limbs needs to be attributed to this entire myofascial complex. We hypothesize that the superficial, large muscles of the trunk developed inside the superficial layer of the deep fascia to enhance modulation of tension transmission between the different segments of the body.

Keywords: Fascia, Pectoral fascia, Subcutaneous tissue, Myofascial unit, Connective tissue

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PII: S1360-8592(08)00074-0

doi:10.1016/j.jbmt.2008.04.036

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Volume 13, Issue 3 , Pages 255-261, July 2009

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