An anatomic variant insertion of peroneus longus in a cadaver – a case report

We report a case of additional slips at the insertion of peroneus longus. Variation of insertion of a muscle claims to be useful in biomechanics, movement and stability of joints. We believe, this study may have a potential role in highlighting the morphological description of an anomalous disposition of peroneal tendons with their clinical relevance. Awareness of such anatomical variants is important to an orthopedist while undertaking reconstructive procedures. It will also help to better understand the symptoms associated with peroneus longus tendon pathologies, and also highlights the role played by the peroneus longus tendon in maintaining the arch of the foot. On regular dissection of the right lower limb of a 48-year-old male embalmed cadaver, additional slips at the insertion of peroneus longus were observed. Out of the four slips of insertion, one slip was inserted on the bases of 3rd, 4th and 5th metatarsals in continuation. Two slips were attached on medial cuneiform and one slip was inserted on the base of 1st metatarsal. The variations seen in the mode of insertion of the peroneus longus muscle may be regarded as developmental arrest in the process of migration from the fibular digit to the tibial digit and finally to the medial cuneiform. Clinically, this bipenniform muscle of lateral compartment can be used for translocation in treatment of paralytic pes calcaneus.