A CADAVERIC STUDY ON JUNCTURAE TENDINAE OF EXTENSOR TENDONS OF THE HAND

Abstract

Juncturae Tendinae (JT) are intertendinous fibrous bands connecting the extensor tendons on the dorsum of the hand. These structures play a pivotal role in the coordinated extension of the fingers, stabilization of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, and redistribution of muscular forces across athe extensor apparatus. Anatomical variability of the JT has important clinical implications, especially in planning and executing surgical interventions related to extensor tendon repair or reconstruction. This cadaveric study aimed to investigate the morphological and morphometric patterns of JT and their anatomical relationships with extensor tendons. Twenty adult cadaveric hands were dissected and examined. JT were classified based on morphological appearance (Type 1, Type 2, Type 3r, and Type 3y), dimensions, angulation, and their location across intermetacarpal spaces. The findings revealed a predominance of Type 1 in the second and third intermetacarpal (IMC) spaces and Type 3r in the fourth IMC space. These observations underscore the functional diversity of JT and their relevance in anatomical education and clinical surgical practice.