Abstract
Introduction
Traditionally Plantaris has been considered of little clinical importance and absent in 8–20% of the population. Recent evidence indicates that it is present in 98–100% of the population and that it may have a contributing role in Achilles tendinopathy due to its close anatomical relationship.
The aim of this study was to establish whether Plantaris was present in a sample of cadaveric limbs, to establish its position in relation to the Achilles tendon and to conduct measures of its thickness and width.
Materials and Methods
Forty eight cadaveric limbs which had been previously dissected were assessed. Plantaris was looked for in the region of the medial Achilles. If it could not be identified here, Gastrocnemius was reflected back to reveal Plantaris tendon beneath, and was then followed distally. All Plantaris tendon measurements were taken 2- 6 cm from the Achilles insertion using a vernier caliper.
Results
Plantaris was present in all of the forty three limbs which were appropriate for assessment. Plantaris was positioned ventromedial to the Achilles tendon in 33 (77%) and medial to the Achilles in 9 (21%) of the limbs. The average width of the Plantaris tendon was 2.8mm (range 1.2–4.9mm) and its average thickness was 0.9mm (range 0.2–1.5mm).
Discussion
Plantaris was present in all limbs in keeping with recent studies. This is the first known study, which measures Plantaris tendon in the region of the midportion Achilles. Future studies are planned to compare these measurements with tendinopathic plantaris tendons.
