BACKGROUND: Multiple variations of the palmaris longus (PL) muscle are reported throughout literature and include variations such as double muscle bellies, inversion of muscle belly and tendon, and the absence of the muscle. The muscle functions as a weak flexor of the wrist.

Can you have two palmaris longus?

Variations of PL muscle are not uncommon. It has been estimated that in about 11% of cases, they are found to be absent (2, 3). However, a study conducted by Mangala et al reported the agenesis of this muscle in 26% of individuals (4).

Can you have 3 palmaris longus?

The palmaris longus muscle originates from the medial epicondyle of the humerus. … This means that the palmaris longus muscle was tendinous in its upper part and muscular in its lower part. Additionally, the muscle belly was triple, thus our finding was characterized as "three-headed reversed palmaris longus muscle".

Is palmaris longus tendon rare?

The palmaris longus is a muscle visible as a small tendon located between the flexor carpi radialis and the flexor carpi ulnaris, although it is not always present. It is absent in about 14 percent of the population; however, this number can vary in African, Asian, and Native American populations.

What percentage of the world has palmaris longus?

The prevalence of the palmaris longus (PL) muscle varies more than any other muscle in the human body. Its absence across the world ranges between 1.5% and 63.9%. It presents with many different anomalies, discovered either clinically, intraoperatively or after anatomical examination of cadavers.

What is palmaris brevis?

The palmaris brevis (PB) is a small muscle of variant morphology originating from the palmar aponeurosis to insert in the skin and fascia of the medial palm (Przystasz, 1977). The PB is uniquely innervated by the only motor component of the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve.

What is the purpose of the palmaris longus?

Function. Palmaris longus synergistically works with the long flexors of the forearm to bring about flexion at the wrist joint and small joints of the hand. Apart from this, the muscle also helps in tightening and tensing up the palmar aponeurosis.

Is it good to have palmaris longus?

The role of this muscle is to help with wrist flexion. The palmaris longus muscle is one of the most variable muscles of the body. Although in the upper limbs its function is considered insignificant, in the event of tendon grafting, it is considerably important.