Anatomy of Ligamentous Structures in the Tarsal Sinus and Canal

Abstract

Background: The descriptive morphology of the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament and other structures in the tarsal sinus and canal vary. An anatomical investigation of the ligamentous structures in the tarsal sinus and canal identified two distinct ligaments, the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament and the anterior capsular ligament, and three components of the medial root of the inferior extensor retinaculum. Methods: Forty embalmed cadaver feet were examined. After disarticulation of the ankle joint, the posterior half of the talus was removed. The length, width, and thickness of the two ligaments and the three components of the extensor retinaculum in the tarsal canal and sinus were measured with calipers. Anatomical variations were recorded. Results: The interosseous talocalcaneal ligament was band-like in 92.5% (38 of 40) of examined specimens, and the anterior capsular ligament was present in 95% (39 of 40) of specimens. The interosseous talocalcaneal ligament, the medial component of the inferior extensor retinaculum, and the talar component of the inferior extensor retinaculum had one or two distinct anatomical variations of morphology and attachments. The interosseous talocalcaneal ligament and the medial component of the extensor retinaculum formed a V shape in the tarsal sinus and canal. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: We demonstrated the morphology and dimensions of the ligaments and components of the extensor retinaculum in the tarsal sinus and canal. Precise anatomy of the structures in the tarsal sinus and canal will strengthen our understanding of their function in the motion or stabilization of the subtalar joint. There may be a functional link between the medial component of the inferior extensor retinaculum and the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament.