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Tendon Sheath of Flexor Digitorum Longus
Connective Tissue

Tendon Sheath of Flexor Digitorum Longus

Vagina tendinium flexoris longi digitorum

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Structure

Several tendons originating from muscles in the leg traverse the ankle to enter the foot. They pass beneath retinacula which holds the tendons in place, preventing subluxation. These tendons are covered by modified bursae, called tendon sheaths, which minimize friction with the surrounding structures. The sheaths, composed of both fibrous and synovial layers, wrap around the tendons, ensuring that the tendons can glide over adjacent structures and allow for minimal friction during movement.

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Anatomical Relations

The tendon sheath of the flexor digitorum longus muscle covers the tendons of this muscle as it travels deep to the flexor retinaculum of the foot, along the medial aspect of the ankle.

Function

The tendon sheath ensures that the tendons of the flexor digitorum longus muscle can glide over adjacent structures and allow for minimal friction during movement. Additionally, the tendon sheath produces synovial fluid, ensuring that the tendon is well lubricated.

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Tendon Sheath

ScienceDirect image

Tenosynovectomy refers to the excision of thickened tendon sheath and other tissue surrounding a tendon, commonly seen in infection, chemical irritation, and rheumatoid arthritis (synovectomy).

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