Morphometry and functional topography of the pes anserinus complex: A standardized cadaveric study

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics

Background:

• The pes anserinus (PA) is a complex of three tendons: sartorius (SART), gracilis (GRT), and semitendinosus (STT).
• Existing literature shows inconsistent measurement definitions and wide morphometric ranges for the PA.
• Standardized reference values are needed for anatomical and clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish standardized, population-based morphometric reference values for the pes anserinus (PA).
• To utilize a single, consistent dissection and measurement protocol for anatomical accuracy.
• To provide data supporting anatomical-functional interpretation of the medial knee stabilizing complex.

Main Methods:

• Dissection of the PA in 62 formalin-fixed adult lower limbs from 41 cadavers.
• Measurement of tendon length, footprint width, insertional thickness/diameter, mid-tendon width, and inter-footprint distances using electronic calipers.
• Three repeated measurements by two independent observers and sex-based comparisons were performed.

Main Results:

• The semitendinosus (STT) was the longest tendon, followed by the gracilis (GRT) and sartorius (SART).
• Distinct differences in footprint widths and distances from the tibial tuberosity were observed among the tendons.
• Consistent layered arrangement of the PA was noted without pre-footprint fusion across all specimens.

Conclusions:

• Standardized cadaveric measurements provide reproducible PA layering and population-based morphometric reference values.
• These data enhance anatomical-functional understanding of the medial knee stabilizing complex.
• The findings facilitate imaging-based and surgical anatomical orientation for procedures involving hamstring tendons.