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Anatomy of the spring ligament
Akira Taniguchi1, Yasuhito Tanaka, Yoshinori Takakura
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijyocho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8522, Japan. a-tani@naramed-u.ac.jp
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|November 25, 2003
Summary
Researchers discovered a third component of the spring ligament complex in cadaveric feet. This previously unidentified ligamentous structure lies beneath the fibrocartilage surface, offering new insights into foot anatomy.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Background:
- The spring ligament complex is crucial for maintaining the medial longitudinal arch of the foot.
- Previous descriptions identified two main components: the inferior calcaneonavicular and superomedial calcaneonavicular ligaments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the deeper structures of the spring ligament complex.
- To identify and characterize distinct anatomical components within the lower layer of the spring ligament.
Main Methods:
- Dissection and examination of 48 cadaveric feet.
- Careful removal of the superficial cartilage of the spring ligament complex.
- Measurement of dimensions (length, width, thickness) of identified components using calipers.
Main Results:
- Identification of three distinct components within the lower layer of the spring ligament complex.
- The components include the superomedial calcaneonavicular ligament, the inferior calcaneonavicular ligament, and a newly identified 'third ligament'.
- The 'third ligament' originates from the calcaneal notch and inserts onto the navicular tuberosity.
Conclusions:
- A third, previously undescribed component of the spring ligament complex has been identified.
- This component lies deep to the fibrocartilage surface, originating between the calcaneal facets and inserting on the navicular tubercle.
- This finding refines our understanding of the anatomical structure and potential biomechanical role of the spring ligament complex.