Tendon of lateral head of gastrocnemius
Tendo capitis laterale musculi gastrocnemii
- Synonym: Lateral gastrocnemius tendon
Definition
The proximal tendon of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle originates from the lateral aspect of the lateral femoral condyle, just posterior and superior to the lateral epicondyle. This tendon is relatively short and broad, blending quickly into the muscular belly.
The lateral head’s proximal tendon is closely associated with the lateral sural cutaneous nerve and the common peroneal nerve, which run in proximity and require careful attention during surgical approaches.
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