The Independent Long Extensor Tendon of the Fifth Toe as a Source of Tendon Grafts for the Hand

Abstract

The anatomical relationships of the extensor of the fifth toe to the long extensor of the other toes have been studied in 78 cadaver specimens. 50% of the specimens had an independent extensor to the fifth toe without interconnections to the other long toe extensors or the peroneus tertius. The independent fifth toe extensor was consistently of good quality and adequate length for use as a tendon graft, for which purpose it has been successfully used in five patients, with transfer of the adjacent long extensor from the fourth toe to maintain extension of the fifth metatarso-phalangeal joint.