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DOI: 10.4322/jms.056014
Morphometry and anatomical variations of flexor digitorum superficialis
Publication History
20 March 2014
07 July 2015
Publication Date:
08 October 2018 (online)
Abstract
Introduction: Flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) takes its origin by two heads: humero ulnar and radial.. The FDS is considered to be potential flexor of proximal interphalangeal, metacarpophalnageal and wrist joints through its insertion to the middle phalanges of lateral 4 fingers. Aim of the study was to conduct a morphometric study on FDS and to evaluate its variants in cadaveric limbs. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on 25 right and 23 left upper limbs belonging to formalin fixed adult cadavers. Lengths of humeral, ulnar, radial heads of the muscle as well as its tendons were separately measured using digital caliper. Mean length of muscle bellies of humeral head, tendinous length and musculotendinous length tabulated. Results: A unique muscle belly arising from the deeper surface of left FDS as a tendon, proximal to flexor retinaculum, entering in the palm after passing through the carpal tunnel was observed. The muscle was inserted into the middle phalanx of index finger. Conclusion: Studies on absolute length of FDS are rare. The present study has significant influence on length tension relationship of afore mentioned muscle. The hazardous effects of anomalous belly of FDS and its consequences were also discussed.