BACKGROUND: A novel method for harvesting the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendon has been described via a plantar approach based on a surface coordinate. The aim of this investigation is to provide a comparison with the traditional medial midfoot dissection for tendon harvest. METHODS: The FDL tendon was exposed in 10 cadaveric feet via a limited plantar approach and also medially as far as could be accessed via the knot of Henry. The FDL was marked with a metal clip in each approach. The lengths of the skin incisions were recorded and the distance between the two markers was measured. RESULTS: The mean additional length of tendon accessed via the plantar approach was 22.9 mm with a mean reduction in skin incision length of 15.6 mm. CONCLUSION: Using the plantar exposure, a longer length of tendon can be obtained through a smaller skin incision which has been quantified here. Copyright 2009 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
BACKGROUND: A novel method for harvesting the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendon has been described via a plantar approach based on a surface coordinate. The aim of this investigation is to provide a comparison with the traditional medial midfoot dissection for tendon harvest. METHODS: The FDL tendon was exposed in 10 cadaveric feet via a limited plantar approach and also medially as far as could be accessed via the knot of Henry. The FDL was marked with a metal clip in each approach. The lengths of the skin incisions were recorded and the distance between the two markers was measured. RESULTS: The mean additional length of tendon accessed via the plantar approach was 22.9 mm with a mean reduction in skin incision length of 15.6 mm. CONCLUSION: Using the plantar exposure, a longer length of tendon can be obtained through a smaller skin incision which has been quantified here. Copyright 2009 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.