Topic Overview

Pectoral Region – Introduction

General Overview

• The pectoral region is the anterior part of the thoracic wall, forming the front of the chest.

• It extends from the clavicle above to the costal margin below.

• It forms the anterior boundary of axilla.

Boundaries

• Superiorly → clavicle.

• Inferiorly → costal margin and 6th rib.

• Medially → sternum.

• Laterally → anterior axillary fold (formed by pectoralis major).

Main Structures Present

• Muscles → pectoralis major, pectoralis minor, subclavius, part of serratus anterior.

• Fasciae → superficial fascia (with breast), deep fascia (pectoral fascia, clavipectoral fascia).

• Neurovascular structures → branches of axillary vessels, thoracoacromial artery, cephalic vein, lymphatics, intercostal nerves.

• Breast → important structure located within superficial fascia of pectoral region.

Clinical Importance (Introductory)

• Breast carcinoma → spreads through lymphatics of pectoral region.

• Pectoralis major → key landmark for axilla and breast surgery.

• Pectoralis minor → important for division of axillary artery into 3 parts.

• Subclavius → protects subclavian vessels in clavicle fracture.