Unusual variation of plantaris muscle-clinical and surgical notes

Plantar muscle is one of the most dis-regarded muscles of the body. However, its injury may be considered in differential diagnosis of painful calf. Variations pertaining to plantaris muscle are rare and therefore infrequently reported in anatomical literature. The present case report endeavors to describe a rare variation of the plantaris muscle. A routine dissection experiment revealed an accessory belly associated with plantaris and a fibrous strand extending from medial belly to the oblique popliteal ligament. Since plantaris is known to be associated with lateral head of gastrocnemius, this accessory belly may be thought of as a supplement for its activity. A clinical insight into the topographical relationship between these accessory bellies and other posterior knee structures will aid diagnosis and alter course of treatment of knee disorders. Moreover, the presence of these muscle variants creates challenges for the radiologists while interpreting MRI/ CT scans. Familiarization with these anatomical anomalies may alert the knee surgeons intraoperatively so that these may be of use for reconstructive purposes.