Background: Anomalous tendons and accessory muscles of the limbs are uncommon but clinically significant. They may mimic soft-tissue masses or cause compression neuropathies. Awareness of such variations helps in accurate diagnosis and safer surgical interventions. Methods: This cadaveric observational case series was conducted during routine dissections of 120 limbs (upper and lower) over four years. Cadavers with damaged or deformed limbs were excluded. Each specimen was carefully examined for the presence of accessory tendons, and findings were documented photographically. Results: Six unilateral anomalous tendons (5) were identified. In the upper limb, two cadavers exhibited accessory tendons arising from the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL). In the lower limb, one additional tendon arose from the peroneus longus, two from the extensor digitorum longus, and one from the peroneus tertius. All cases were unilateral and showed no associated muscular or skeletal abnormalities. Conclusion: Recognition of anomalous tendons is important for anatomists, radiologists, and surgeons. Such variations may resemble pathological findings on imaging but can serve as valuable grafts in reconstructive and tendon transfer surgeries. Understanding their embryological origin enhances anatomical knowledge and prevents iatrogenic injury during operative procedures.
Hema et al. (Tue,) studied this question.