Anatomical variation of peroneus tertius muscle found during routine anatomy dissection
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Date
2019-09-12
Authors
Kosgallana, E. W.
Eshwara, J. M.
Dissanayake, J. K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Peradeniya
Abstract
Peroneus tertius, a muscle of the lower limb first described by Versalius was once thought to be unique to humans. A number of anatomical variations have been reported regarding this muscle. Although thought to play an important role in bipedal gait, it is not considered absolutely necessary for the normal function of the lower limbs. Therefore, it is used widely for soft tissue replacement surgeries. Its precise anatomy is also important in the placement of arthroscopy portals to avoid injuring vital neurovascular structures. Adjacent to it is the extensor digitorum longus muscle which dorsiflexes the foot and extends the toes. This study examined the lower limbs of 27 cadavers for variations of the peroneus tertius during routine anatomy dissections. In two specimens, a variation of the distal attachment of peroneus tertius muscle revealed that in addition to the normal attachment to the shaft of the fifth metatarsal, an additional slip inserted to the extensor expansion of the fifth toe. It apparently replaced the fourth tendon of extensor digitorum longus, which only had three divisions in these specimens. This variation was present in the right leg of an 88-year-old female and the left leg of a female of unknown age. This variation may hinder the use of peroneus tertius tendon for above mentioned purposes as extension of fifth toe might be affected with the removal of peroneus tertius muscle/tendon. This may necessitate accurate imaging before such procedures.
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Keywords
Anatomical variations , Arthroscopy , Cadaveric study , Peroneus tertius , Soft tissue surgery