Supernumerary insertions of the sternocleidomastoid muscle: a rare anatomical variation with clinical significance

Key Points

• Investigate a rare insertional variation of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and its potential clinical implications.
• Case report of a unique sternocleidomastoid muscle structure with supernumerary tendons.
• Assessment of the anatomical variation's relevance to clinical and surgical practices.
• Discussion of the variation's role as a potential flap in facial palsy treatment.
• Identification of the second reported case of supernumerary tendons in the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
• Discussion of implications for surgical approaches in the neck region.
• Highlighting the value of this variation in reconstructive procedures for facial palsy.