Study of anatomical variations of plantaris muscle in cadavers

Dr. Neeraj Kumar; Dr. Anupriya Kumar; Dr. Sunil N Tidke

Volume : VI, Issue : V, May - 2017

Study of anatomical variations of plantaris muscle in cadavers

Dr. Neeraj Kumar, Dr. Anupriya Kumar, Dr. Sunil N Tidke

Abstract :

Background: The plantaris muscle consists of a small, thin muscle belly, and a long thin tendon. The aim of this study was to identify the agenesis and the variations of its origin and insertion. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted by the Department of Anatomy, TSM Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow. The plantaris muscle was dissected in 15 adult embalmed cadavers (30 lower limbs), 4 females and 11 males, the average age of the cadavers was between 40–70 years. Result: In our present study mean length of the muscle belly was 7.59 cm, mean girth of muscle belly was 0.42 cm and mean length of the tendon was 32.37 cm. Agenesis of plantaris was observed bilaterally in a male cadaver, with the incidence of 6.66%. Conclusion: Earlier it was thought that the plantaris muscle is vestigial and degenerating structure. Recent studies revealed that it can be used as a autograft material in plastic & reconstructive surgeries.