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Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy

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Open Access 01-07-2021 | Original Article

The twisted structure of the fetal calcaneal tendon is already visible in the second trimester

Authors: Paweł Szaro, Grzegorz Witkowski, Bogdan Ciszek

Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy | Issue 7/2021

Abstract

Introduction

The progress in morphological science results from the greater possibilities of intra-pubic diagnosis and treatment of congenital disabilities, including the motor system. However, the structure and macroscopic development of the calcaneal tendon have not been investigated in detail. Studies on the adult calcaneal tendon showed that the calcaneal tendon is composed of twisted subtendons. This study aimed to investigate the internal structure of the fetal calcaneal tendon in the second trimester.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six fetuses fixed in 10% formaldehyde were dissected using the layer-by-layer method and a surgical microscope.

Results

The twisted structure of the calcaneal tendon was revealed in all specimens. The posterior layer of the calcaneal tendon is formed by the subtendon from the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle. In contrast, the anterior layer is formed by the subtendon from the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle. The subtendon from the soleus muscle constitutes the anteromedial outline of the calcaneal tendon. The lateral outline of the calcaneal tendon is formed by the subtendon originating from the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle. In contrast, the medial outline is formed by the subtendon from the soleus muscle. In most of the examined limbs, the plantaris tendon attached to the tuber calcanei was not directly connected to the calcaneal tendon.

Conclusions

The twisted structure of the subtendons of the fetal calcaneal tendon is already visible in the second trimester and is similar to that seen in adults.

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Title: The twisted structure of the fetal calcaneal tendon is already visible in the second trimester
Authors: Paweł Szaro
Grzegorz Witkowski
Bogdan Ciszek
Publication date: 01-07-2021
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy / Issue 7/2021
Print ISSN: 0930-1038
Electronic ISSN: 1279-8517
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-020-02618-0

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

The twisted structure of the fetal calcaneal tendon is already visible in the second trimester

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

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