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Common Flexor Tendon Sheath
Connective Tissue

Common Flexor Tendon Sheath

Vagina communis tendinum flexorum

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Anatomical Relations

The common flexor tendon sheaths envelop the flexor tendons of the digits. There are two separate sheaths for the flexor digitorum superficialis and the flexor digitorum profundus. On occasion, the two sheaths are in communication with each other deep to the flexor retinaculum (Standring, 2016).

The proximal origin of the common flexor sheaths is 2.5 cm proximal to the flexor retinaculum and extends as far as the mid metacarpals. They are blind ended sacs; however, the sheath for the fifth digit is prolonged.

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Structure

The common flexor sheath has an outer fibrous component and an inner double layered sheath of synovial membrane that is akin to a longitudinal bursa. The synovial layer is composed of an inner visceral layer and an outer parietal layer. The synovium produces a thin layer of lubricating fluid between the visceral and parietal layers which surround the tendons.

Function

The common flexor sheath provides a well-lubricated, smooth surface that reduces friction during movements of the tendons.

List of Clinical Correlates

—Tendovaginitis

References

Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Gray's Anatomy Series 41st edn.: Elsevier Limited.

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