Anatomy & Physiology: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

A Rare Unilateral Tensor Fasciae Suralis Muscle: Case Report and Clinical Significance

Amanda S. Khan*, Natalia Lowry, Jeffrey Fahl and Michael P. Smith

Objective: To report and describe a rare variation of the hamstring muscle group known as the tensor fasciae suralis muscle.

Case Presentation: The anomalous muscle was discovered during a routine dissection of a cadaver in the posterior right lower limb. The left lower limb was dissected but displayed no discernable muscle variations.

Results: The variation of the tensor fasciae suralis that was discovered arises from the long head of the biceps femoris, descends superficially across the popliteal region, and inserts on both heads of the gastrocnemius muscle and the overlaying crural fascia.

Conclusion: The tensor fasciae suralis is rarely reported in literature and may have resulted from a disruption in the regulation of muscle and tendon patterning during primary myogenesis in the early development of the lower limb. Although individuals with the tensor fasciae suralis are likely to present clinically with no symptoms, it is of interest due to its proximity to important neurovascular structures of the popliteal fossa, and its potential to show up as a pathological structure on an MRI.

Published Date: 2022-11-30; Received Date: 2022-10-28