Chest wall deformities and their correction in bodybuilders.

Abstract

Torn pectoralis major muscles are either treated acutely by orthopedic surgeons or, if neglected, result in deformities of the pectoralis muscle. These deformities are visible, with pectoralis muscle asymmetry, especially on muscle contraction. Bodybuilders prone to this injury accentuate the asymmetry by contracting the pectoralis muscles together. Late repair is not usually possible, and cosmetic improvement relies on removing the bulging, unattached muscles or camouflaging the underlying exposed ribs with a customized implant. Similar customized implants are used to repair pectus excavatum. Techniques must take into consideration the desire for accentuation of the pectoralis muscle with minimal visible scarring. The surgeon and the anesthesiologist should be aware of the possibility of anabolic steroid ingestion in the male body-builder.