Subpectoral Bursa

bursa subpectoralis

A bursa between the pectoralis major tendon and the anterior shoulder capsule or lesser tuberosity, reducing friction as the pectoralis major sweeps across the anterior shoulder during adduction and internal rotation movements.

Region: Shoulder

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Subpectoral bursitis produces deep anterior shoulder pain reproduced by resisted adduction and internal rotation. It is in the region of the biceps tendon at the groove level and may be confused with bicipital groove pathology. The subpectoral space is accessed surgically during pectoralis major transfer and in subpectoral biceps tenodesis, where the tenodesis anchor is placed beneath the pectoralis major.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Subpectoral Bursitis

Bursal inflammation beneath the pectoralis major tendon producing anterior shoulder pain with resisted adduction, managed with injection and activity modification of pectoralis-loading activities.