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Published on: February 9, 2013
A cadaveric study of the morphology of the extensor hallucis longus - a proposal for a new classification
Łukasz Olewnik1, Michał Podgórski2, Michał Polguj3
1Department of Normal and Clinical Anatomy, Interfaculty Chair of Anatomy and Histology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland. lukasz.olewnik@umed.lodz.pl.
Insights
The extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon shows significant morphological variations, with a new classification identifying three main types based on insertion patterns. Understanding these variations is crucial for anatomical and clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Morphology
Background:
- The extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon exhibits morphological variations, primarily concerning accessory tendons and insertion sites.
- Existing classifications may not fully capture the diversity of EHL tendon anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel classification system for the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon.
- To detail the morphological variations observed in the EHL tendon.
Main Methods:
- Conducted classical anatomical dissections on 104 lower limbs (51 right, 53 left).
- Specimens were preserved in a 10% formalin solution for detailed examination.
Main Results:
- Observed three main types of EHL tendon morphology: single tendon (Type I, 57.7%), two distal tendons (Type II, with subtypes A, B, C accounting for 29.9%, 4.8%, 5.7% respectively), and three distal tendons (Type III, 1.9%).
- Type I featured a single tendon inserting onto the distal phalanx of the big toe.
- Type II and III involved bifurcations or trifurcations of the distal tendon.
Conclusions:
- The extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon displays considerable morphological variability.
- Accurate knowledge of EHL tendon insertion variations is essential for both clinicians and anatomists.
Background:
Morphological variations of the EHL concern mainly the accessory tendons and the site of their insertion. The aim of our study is to present a new classification of the EHL.
Methods:
Classical anatomical dissection was performed on 104 lower limbs (51 right, 53 left, fixed in 10% formalin solution).
Results:
In the cadavers, three types of morphology (insertion and addidtional band) were observed. Type I, the most common type, was characterized by a single tendon that ends as an extensor hood on the dorsal aspect of the base of the distal phalanx of the big toe (57.7%). Type II was characterized by two distal tendons and was subdivided into three subtypes according to (A-29.9%, B-4.8% and C-5.7%). Type III was characterised by three distal tendons (two cases - 1.9%).
Conclusion:
The EHL presents high morphological variability. Knowledge of particular types of insertion is essential for both clinicians and anatomists.
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