Pectoralis Minor, Lateral View

Description

Seen from the lateral thoracic wall, the pectoralis minor lies deep to the pectoralis major and runs superolaterally from the anterior surfaces of ribs 3 to 5 toward the coracoid process of the scapula. The red-highlighted pectoralis major forms the anterior axillary fold and overlies the smaller triangular pectoralis minor, while the serratus anterior appears more posteriorly along the ribs as digitations. Superiorly, the clavicular region and deltoid contour frame the shoulder, and the scapula sits posterolateral to the rib cage with its coracoid projecting anteriorly. Orientation is clear. A lateral angle is where the pectoralis minor’s depth and line of pull make the most sense, because you can track how contraction draws the coracoid anteriorly and inferiorly, tipping the scapula and influencing scapulothoracic rhythm. Clinically, this anatomy is tied to pectoralis minor tightness and scapular dyskinesis, and it also matters in neurovascular compression patterns grouped under pectoralis minor syndrome, where the cords of the brachial plexus and axillary vessels pass immediately posterior to the muscle near the coracoid. Surgeons also use this relationship when working through deltopectoral or axillary exposures, where releasing pectoralis minor can improve access to the infraclavicular space and anterior shoulder. Use this plate in gross anatomy and kinesiology teaching to contrast pectoralis major (superficial) with pectoralis minor (deep) and to explain why anterior shoulder posture changes scapular position. It also fits well in orthopedic and sports medicine texts covering shoulder impingement patterns and rehabilitation cueing for scapular control. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.