Debulking and tenolysis of an anomalous flexor digitorum superficialis muscle belly in the palm: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) anomalies can manifest in many ways. Prior case reports have described FDS variants being found incidentally as well being associated with nerve compression and mechanical symptoms. We present a case of an 83-year-old woman complaining pain and locking of the right index finger with associated tenderness at the level of the A1 pulley. Surgical exploration revealed an anomalous FDS muscle belly originating from the FDS tendon with adhesions to the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon. Tenolysis and dubulking of the anaomalous muscle and its tendon were performed leading to resolution of her symptoms. This case highlights the importance of remaining vigilant for anatomic variants during hand surgeries.