Distal tendon of semitendinosus
Tendo distalis musculi semitendionsi
- Latin synonym: Tendo distalis musculi semitendionsi
- Synonym: Distal semitendinosus tendon
- Related terms: Tendon of semitendinosus
Definition
The distal tendon of the semitendinosus muscle is a long, slender structure that extends from the muscle belly of semitendinsus to its insertion at the pes anserinus on the medial aspect of the tibia.
The semitendinosus muscle is part of the hamstring group and is characterized by a tendinous inscription that divides it into proximal and distal compartments. The distal tendon of the semitendinosus inserts at the medial aspect of the knee, specifically at the pes anserinus, where it conjoins with the tendons of the sartorius and gracilis muscles.[1-2]
The distal tendon is clinically significant as it is often harvested for use in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgeries. This tendon is known for its length and strength, making it a preferred graft choice. The anatomy of the distal semitendinosus tendon includes a myotendinous junction, which is a specialized structure where muscle fibers transition into tendon fibers, facilitating force transmission from muscle to bone.[1][3]
References
1.Partial Semitendinosus Tendon Tear in a Young Athlete: A Case Report and Review of the Distal Semitendinosus Anatomy.Sivasundaram L, Matcuk GR, White EA, Hatch GF, Patel DB.Skeletal Radiology. 2015;44(7):1051-6. doi:10.1007/s00256-015-2133-5.
2.Pes Anserinus: Anatomy and Pathology of Native and Harvested Tendons.Curtis BR, Huang BK, Pathria MN, Resnick DL, Smitaman E.AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology. 2019;213(5):1107-1116. doi:10.2214/AJR.19.21315.
3.Semitendinosus Muscle in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery: Morphology and Function.Eriksson K, Hamberg P, Jansson E, et al.Arthroscopy : The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery : Official Publication of the Arthroscopy Association of North America and the International Arthroscopy Association. 2001;17(8):808-17. doi:10.1016/s0749-8063(01)90003-9.
