A Rare Quadruplicate Arrangement of Abductor Pollicis Longus Tendons - Anatomical and Clinical Relevance

Movements of the thumb are carried out by extrinsic and intrinsic muscles and have immense phylogenetic and evolutionary significance. The number, length, and thickness of APL accessory tendons may have a functional role in the etiology of DeQuervain’s stenosing tenovaginitis. Thus, precise knowledge of the variations in this region is important for hand surgeons. Additionally, these tendons may prove to be of importance in plastic reconstructive surgeries where they could be utilized as effective transplant tissues. Technological advancements in MRI imaging have enabled hand surgeons to identify the musculo-tendinous and retinacular structures of the dorsum of the hand in detail. Familiarity with the variations in extensor tendons of the hand and fingers is vital for appropriate diagnosis of neurological disorders. Anatomical comprehension is particularly essential for clinical situations related to extensor tendon injuries and inflammatory diseases. The main objective of this report is to illustrate in detail the variant insertion pattern of APL tendon slips and to discuss their functional and clinical relevance.