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

• 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.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Radiologi och bildbehandling (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Calcaneal tendon

Fetus

Tendon

Gastrocnemius

Soleus

Development

achilles-tendon

plantar fascia

anatomy

age

muscle

Anatomy & Morphology

Radiology

Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging

Surgery

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