Flexor digitorum longus tendon exposure for flatfoot reconstruction: A comparison of two methods in a cadaveric model

Abstract 

Background

A novel method for harvesting the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendon has been described via a plantar approach based on a surface coordinate. The aim of this investigation is to provide a comparison with the traditional medial midfoot dissection for tendon harvest.

Methods

The FDL tendon was exposed in 10 cadaveric feet via a limited plantar approach and also medially as far as could be accessed via the knot of Henry. The FDL was marked with a metal clip in each approach. The lengths of the skin incisions were recorded and the distance between the two markers was measured.

Results

The mean additional length of tendon accessed via the plantar approach was 22.9mm with a mean reduction in skin incision length of 15.6mm.

Conclusion

Using the plantar exposure, a longer length of tendon can be obtained through a smaller skin incision which has been quantified here.

Keywords: Flexor digitorum longus, Tendon, Flatfoot, Cadaver