Clavipectoral Fascia

fascia clavipectoralis

The clavipectoral fascia is a strong sheet of fascia attached above to the clavicle and enclosing the subclavius and pectoralis minor muscles before blending with the axillary fascia below. It has an upper thickening (costocoracoid membrane) and a lower thickening (suspensory ligament of the axilla).

Region: Chest

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Forms the anterior wall of the axilla between the clavicle and pectoralis minor, encloses the subclavius and pectoralis minor, transmits the cephalic vein, thoracoacromial vessels, and lateral pectoral nerve through its perforations, and suspends the axillary floor.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The clavipectoral fascia is divided in anterior approaches to the shoulder (deltopectoral approach) to access the subcoracoid space. The suspensory ligament of the axilla maintains the axillary dome — its disruption allows the axillary skin to retract inferiorly. In breast surgery, the clavipectoral fascia is the deep plane for skin-sparing mastectomy.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Clavipectoral Fascia Division in Deltopectoral Approach

The costocoracoid portion of the clavipectoral fascia is divided medial to the coracoid during anterior shoulder surgery to access the subscapularis and glenohumeral joint.

Axillary Web Syndrome

Post-axillary dissection cording of the clavipectoral fascia producing a palpable band and restricted shoulder abduction, treated by stretching and physiotherapy.