• Due to:
    • Direct transection of myofibres
    • Compression of myofibres
    • Secondary from haemorrhage (bruising)
    • Partial rupture - e.g. of diaphragm in road traffic accident
    • Complete rupture - e.g. quadriceps of racing greyhounds
    • Myorrhexis (tearing) - e.g. slippery floor causing 'splits' in cattle -> adductor muscle tear
  • Healing is by regeneration
  • Fibrosis (scarring) will compromise function
  • During fractures, fragments may cause further trauma if moved