The pectoral fascia: Anatomical and histological study

摘要

Aim: Analysis of the pectoral fascia from a macroscopic and histological point ofview.Results: The pectoral fascia appears as a thin collagen layer (mean thickness of297 mum) formed by undulated collagen fibres and many elastic fibres, within whichsmall nerves are highlighted. Numerous septa detach from its internal surface,creating an intimate connection between the fascia and the pectoralis majormuscle.Discussion: The pectoral fascia and the pectoralis major muscle should beconsidered together, given that the anatomical base is effectively a myofascialunit, term that defines the muscles and the fascia of a specific region that have aprecise functional organization. The capacity of force transmission between theinferior and superior limbs needs to be attributed to this entire myofascial complex.We hypothesize that the superficial, large muscles of the trunk developed inside thesuperficial layer of the deep fascia to enhance modulation of tension transmissionbetween the different segments of the body.