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The Plantaris Tendon Option for Anatomical Reconstruction

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Lateral Ankle Instability

Abstract

Anatomical reconstructions are the preferred option when ligament remnants are absent or of low quality. In these cases, the plantaris tendon is a viable option for lateral ligament reconstruction.

The plantaris tendon can be found, proximally, between the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, running in a distal and medial direction, before lying parallel to the Achilles tendon. It is reported to be absent in up to 19.2% of the population. Biomechanical studies support the assumption that the plantaris tendon has enough tensile strength for anatomical reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments.

Surgeons should be aware of possible involvement of the plantaris tendon in patients with previous Achilles tendinopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasound, can be used to assess location and status of the plantaris tendon preoperatively. Proximal and distal approaches for harvesting the tendon are here presented. Harvesting can also be performed with arthroscopic assistance.

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Diniz, P., Quintero, D., Ezpeleta, L., Abdelatif, N., Batista, J., Pereira, H. (2021). The Plantaris Tendon Option for Anatomical Reconstruction. In: Pereira, H., et al. Lateral Ankle Instability. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-62763-1_32

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-62763-1_32

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