Tendon Sheath of Extensor Digitorum and Extensor Indicis
Vagina tendinum extensoris digitorum et extensoris indicis
Read moreAnatomical Relations
The extensor digitorum muscle becomes tendinous in the distal one third of the forearm. It splits into four separate tendons and continues distally in a single tendon sheath, along with the tendon of the extensor indicis muscle (Standring, 2016). It passes medial to the dorsal tubercle of the radius and may extend further along the proximal one third of the metacarpals.
Related parts of the anatomy
Structure
The tendon sheath of the extensor digitorum and the extensor indicis has an outer fibrous component and an inner double layered sheath of synovial membrane that is akin to a longitudinal bursa. The synovial layer is composed of an inner visceral layer and an outer parietal layer. The synovium produces a thin layer of lubricating fluid between the visceral and parietal layers which surround the tendons.
Function
The tendon sheath of the extensor digitorum and extensor indicis muscles provides a well-lubricated, smooth surface that reduces friction during movements of the tendons.
List of Clinical Correlates
—Tendovaginitis
References
Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Gray's Anatomy Series 41st edn.: Elsevier Limited.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
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).
