81 - Exploring Plantaris Diversity: An Investigation into the Variability and Prevalence of the Plantaris Tendon in the Human Population

Poster Board Number: 81
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Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Co-authors:

Amber Peterson - Western University of Health and Sciences - Pomona, CA; Catherine Llera Martin - Western University of Health and Sciences - Pomona, CA

Abstract Body : Introduction: Despite its minor function in human movement, the plantaris tendon is a valuable prospect for reconstructive surgery due to its structural integrity and biomechanical attributes. Prior studies examining the plantaris suggested an optimal tendon for grafting should have a length exceeding 30 cm with a width greater than 1.5 mm, or a length surpassing 15 cm with a width exceeding 3.0 mm. Notwithstanding research on the plantaris tendon’s suitability for grafting regarding dimensions and biomechanical properties, there is a notable gap in our understanding of the current levels of anatomical variation within elderly populations and how these variations align with established requirements for graft material.

Objective: By examining the prevalence and dimensional variation of the plantaris in the elderly population, this research aims to provide insights crucial for surgical planning, emphasizing the potential role of the plantaris tendon as a practical and effective graft source in reconstructive procedures.

Methods: Fifty-nine embalmed cadavers (aged 47-92, deceased from natural causes) at Western University of Health Sciences were examined to identify the presence of the plantaris in each lower limb. In 25 limbs, calipers were used to measure tendon thickness and width at four points, with lengths measured using a measuring tape.

Results: The plantaris muscle and tendon were observed in 94.9% of our sample, revealing a greater prevalence than the previously reported range of 80-93%. Our sample exhibited significantly elevated mean values (p-value < 0.05) for both tendon width and thickness compared to data from other published studies on the plantaris tendon.

Conclusion: This study concludes that there is a higher prevalence in the plantaris tendon than previously documented with notable differences within our sample and across other study populations, showcasing significant variation in plantaris tendon length, width, and thickness. Although potential underestimations in our study could be attributed to the embalming process, our statistically higher population estimates indicate that other factors likely contribute to the observed variation. These findings demonstrate variability among populations and highlight previously overlooked variations within the elderly population, emphasizing the need for individualized assessments in clinical practice.

Significance: The widespread prevalence of the plantaris tendon enhances its accessibility and broadens its applicability. This distinctive feature substantially contributes to its significance as a tendon graft material, facilitating extensive use across various patient demographics.