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The microvacuolar system: how connective tissue sliding works
J C Guimberteau1, J P Delage, D A McGrouther
1Aquaitaine Hand Institute, Pessac, France. adf.guimberteau@wanadoo.fr
The Journal of Hand Surgery, European Volume
|June 24, 2010
Summary
This review clarifies the diverse roles of hand fascia, including its function in gliding and lubrication. Understanding this
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Biomechanics
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- The term 'fascia' encompasses diverse tissues in the hand, from strong ligaments to loose packing tissues.
- Traditional 'superficial' and 'deep' fascia classifications have limited applicability to the hand.
- Fascial functions include motion restraint, skin anchoring, and lubrication/gliding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the poorly described fascial tissues in the hand.
- To understand the structure and dynamic anatomy of hand fascia.
- To elucidate the 'microvacuolar system' for improved hand injury and disease outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on fascial anatomy and function in the hand.
- Description of the 'microvacuolar system' as the sliding tissue of the hand.
Main Results:
- Hand fascia comprises tissues with distinct roles: motion restraint, skin anchoring, and lubrication.
- The 'microvacuolar system' facilitates tissue movement with minimal skin distortion and maintained continuity.
- Deep fascia is well-characterized, while other fascial components remain less understood.
Conclusions:
- A clearer understanding of hand fascial anatomy and its dynamic 'microvacuolar system' is crucial.
- This knowledge can enhance clinical outcomes for hand injuries and diseases.
- Further research into the poorly described fascial tissues is warranted.
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