A New Anatomical Classification for Tibialis Posterior Tendon Insertion and Its Clinical Implications: A Cadaveric Study

Abstract

The variations in the tibialis posterior tendon (TPT) could not be defined by previous classification; thus, this study used a larger-scale cadaver with the aim to classify the types of TPT insertion based on the combination of the number and location of TPT insertions. A total of 118 feet from adult formalin-fixed cadavers were dissected (68 males, 50 females). The morphological characteristics and measurements of TPT insertion were evaluated. Four types of TPT insertions were classified, wherein the most common type was type 4 (quadruple insertions, 78 feet, 66.1%), which was divided into four new subtypes that were not defined in the previous classification. The second most common type was type 3 (triple insertions, 25 feet, 21.2%) with three subtypes, including the new subtype. Type 2 was found in 13 feet (11%), and the rarest type was type 1 (2 feet, 1.7%), wherein the main tendon was only attached to the navicular bone and the medial cuneiform bone. We suggest high morphological variability of the TPT in relation to the insertion location, along with the possibility of significant differences according to race and gender. Moreover, this classification will help clinicians understand adult flatfoot deformity-related posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD).