Sternocostal head of pectoralis major muscle
Pars sternocostalis musculi pectoralis majoris
- Related terms: Sternocostal head; Pectoralis major : Sternocostal head
Definition
From this extensive origin the fibers of the pectoralis muscle converge toward their insertion;
- those arising from the clavicle (clavicular head) pass obliquely downward and outwards (laterally), and are usually separated from the rest by a slight interval.
- those from the lower part of the sternum, and the cartilages of the lower true ribs, (sternocostal head) run upward and laterally, while the middle fibers pass horizontally.
- those from the sheath of the straight abdominal muscle (abdominal part) run more upward and laterrally.
References
Solari F, Burns B. Anatomy, Thorax, Pectoralis Major Major. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525991/