Superficial transverse metatarsal ligament

The superficial transverse metatarsal ligament is composed of distal transverse fibrous bands of plantar aponeurosis.

It is a thin, fibrous band located on the plantar aspect of the forefoot. Anatomically, it runs transversely across the distal metatarsal heads, superficial to the digital neurovascular bundles and the plantar aponeurosis. This ligament connects the plantar skin and subcutaneous tissue overlying the metatarsophalangeal joints, binding the skin and soft tissue between the toes and contributing to the integrity of the interdigital spaces.

It is distinct from the deep transverse metatarsal ligament, which lies deeper and connects the metatarsal heads themselves, providing static support to the metatarsophalangeal joints.

The superficial transverse metatarsal ligament is relatively thin and variable in its prominence, and it is most easily identified during dissection of the plantar forefoot, where it is encountered just beneath the skin and subcutaneous fat, spanning from the medial to the lateral side across the web spaces.

Functionally, this ligament helps maintain the position of the digital neurovascular bundles and prevents excessive splaying of the toes, thereby supporting the soft tissue architecture of the forefoot. It does not contribute significantly to joint stability, which is the role of the deeper transverse metatarsal ligament.

The superficial transverse metatarsal ligament is clinically relevant in procedures involving the interdigital spaces, such as neuroma excision, where its identification and preservation can help prevent postoperative complications related to soft tissue support.