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A supernumerary extensor tendon to the thumb with an accessory tendon to extensor indicis
1Whiston Hospital, Burns and Plastics, Warrington Road, Prescot, Merseyside L3 0BH, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|June 21, 2011
Summary
An unusual anatomical variation involving extra tendons to the thumb and extensor indicis muscle was discovered in a cadaver. This rare finding may explain certain clinical symptoms and aid surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Morphology
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- Anatomical variations are common but can impact clinical practice.
- Understanding rare tendon anomalies is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a previously undescribed anatomical variation.
- To highlight the clinical relevance of rare tendon anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Routine dissection of a male cadaveric upper limb.
- Detailed observation and documentation of anomalous tendons.
Main Results:
- Discovery of an independent anomalous tendon to the thumb.
- Identification of an accessory supernumerary tendon to the extensor indicis muscle.
- This specific combination of variations has not been previously documented.
Conclusions:
- This case presents a unique anatomical variation of the thumb and extensor indicis tendons.
- Such variations may be significant for understanding unexplained clinical signs.
- Awareness of these anomalies is important for surgeons operating in the hand and wrist.
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