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Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy

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Open Access 01-03-2020 | Review

Bilateral reversed palmaris longus muscle: a case report and systematic literature review

Authors: Georga Longhurst, Danya Stone, Nick Mahony

Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy | Issue 3/2020

Abstract

Purpose

We present a case of a bilateral reversed palmaris longus muscle and a systematic review of the literature on this anatomical variation.

Methods

Routine dissection of a 90-year-old male cadaver revealed a rare bilateral reversed palmaris longus. This was documented photographically, and length and relation to anatomical landmarks were recorded. This finding stimulated a systematic review of the literature on the reversed palmaris longus variation, from which measurements were collated and statistical analysis performed to determine the prevalence, average length, relationship to side and sex, and to discuss its clinical and evolutionary implications.

Results

The average length of the muscle belly and tendon of reversed palmaris longus was 135 mm and 126 mm, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed no disparity in presentation due to sex and side; however, bilateral reversed palmaris longus has only been reported in males. A high proportion (70.8%) of reversed palmaris longus were discovered in the right upper limb compared to the left.

Conclusion

Variations in palmaris longus are purported to be as a result of phylogenetic regression. Clinically, patients with this variant may present with pain or swelling of the distal forearm, often as a result of intense physical exertion related to occupation or sport. Clinicians should be aware of this muscle variant as its presence could lead to confusion during tendon allograft harvesting procedures in reconstructive and tendon grafting surgery.

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Title: Bilateral reversed palmaris longus muscle: a case report and systematic literature review
Authors: Georga Longhurst
Danya Stone
Nick Mahony
Publication date: 01-03-2020
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy / Issue 3/2020
Print ISSN: 0930-1038
Electronic ISSN: 1279-8517
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-019-02363-z

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Bilateral reversed palmaris longus muscle: a case report and systematic literature review

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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