Fibrous Sheaths of Digits of Hand (Left)
Vaginae fibrosae digitorum manus
Read moreAnatomical Relations
The fibrous sheaths of the digits of the hand are the strong ligamentous tunnels, through which the tendons of flexor digitorum superficialis and profundus and their synovial sheaths pass. The tendinous sheath for the flexor pollicis longus muscle is separate and continues distally within the thumb.
Structure
The fibrous sheath of the flexor tendons is osseoaponeurotic tunnels that form from palmar fascia and run distally to the distal phalanx. The fibrous layer has annular and cruciform fibers, which form pulley systems around the tendon and bones.
Function
The fibrous sheaths keep the tendons fixed in place on the bone, thus, prevent bowstringing of the tendons.