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An anomalous accessory flexor digiti minimi profundus muscle: a case study
M Y Wahba1, G D Singh, S Lozanoff
1Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.)
|January 28, 1998
Summary
A previously unreported forearm muscle variant, the accessory flexor digiti minimi profundus, was found during cadaver dissection. This anomalous muscle may impact hand function and nerve pathways.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Morphology
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- Anatomical variations in the forearm musculature are not uncommon.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate clinical diagnosis and surgical procedures.
Observation:
- A distinct, well-developed anomalous muscle was identified in the forearm flexor compartment during a routine cadaveric dissection.
- This muscle originated from the intercompartmental septum near the wrist and inserted onto the proximal phalanx of the fifth digit.
Findings:
- The anomalous muscle demonstrated an action of flexing the metacarpophalangeal joint of the fifth digit.
- Morphologically, it appeared to be an accessory belly of the flexor digitorum profundus.
- This specific variant, termed accessory flexor digiti minimi profundus, acting on the little finger's metacarpophalangeal joint, has not been previously documented in scientific literature.
Implications:
- The presence of this accessory muscle may have significant clinical relevance.
- Potential impacts include alterations in ulnar nerve function and compromised circulation within the hand.
- This finding necessitates consideration in differential diagnoses for hand and wrist pathologies.