Structure
Tendon sheaths are modified bursae that surround tendons, minimizing 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.
Related parts of the anatomy
Anatomical Relations
The tendon sheaths of the toes cover the tendons of the flexor muscles of the toes (i.e., flexor digitorum longus and brevis and flexor hallucis longus) as they travel between the plantar aponeurosis and the plantar ligaments of the metatarsophalangeal joints.
Function
The tendon sheath ensures that the tendons of the flexor muscles of the toes can glide over adjacent structures and allow for minimal friction during movement. Additionally, the tendinous sheath produces synovial fluid, ensuring that the tendon is well lubricated.
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Tendon Sheath
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).
