An unique unilateral tendon variation of the extensor digitorum longus muscle.

PURPOSE: The double tendon of extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle was observed on the left leg of a 80-year-old male cadaver.

METHODS

A male cadaver 80 years old was subjected to routine anatomical dissection for research and teaching purposes.

RESULTS

The main tendon of the EDL muscle started just at the end of the muscle belly. However, the accessory tendon started at the tendinous end of the muscle as a continuation of the muscle. The main and accessory tendons split into two more slips after passing through the same tunnel below the extensor retinaculum. There was also difference on ending of the tendon slips of EDL muscle. The main tendon divided into two tendinous slips on the dorsum of the foot attached to the second and third toes. The accessory tendon divided into two tendinous slips on the dorsum of the foot attached to the fourth and the fifth toes.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of the tendons and anatomical differences of this muscle is important for surgeons in interventional procedures involving the dorsum of the foot.