A RARE ANATOMICAL VARIATION OF BILATERAL BICIPITAL ORIGIN OF PLANTARIS MUSCLE: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

The posterior calf group, plantaris muscle has a small fusiform muscle belly and a long slender tendon sandwiched between the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles. The case was reported during routine dissection at National institute of Ayurveda Deemed university, Jaipur. The subject was 31year-old male cadaver of north Indian origin. The Bilateral Bicipital origin of Plantaris Muscle was observed during the cadaveric dissection of the popliteal region. Two distinct PMS (Plantaris Muscles) were present, the SPM (superior Plantaris Muscle) and IPM (Inferior Plantaris Muscle). While the SPM originates from the lower lateral supracondylar ridge and the knee capsule, the IPM originates from the femoral condyle and SPM tendon splitting in to one part at the distal belly. The lateral side of the IPM tendon travels between GM (Gastrocnemius Muscle) and SM (Soleus Muscle) and ends at the calcaneal tendon. SPM and the medial side of the IPM tendon run along with the IPM tendon and insert at the fascia at the inner surface of proximal 1/3of the medial head of GM. The present case report introduces a new variation of the PM that should be taken into consideration.