Additional Tendon Slip of the Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus: A Case Report with Clinical Application

Song N Bowers; Davis Henry; Reed McGuire; Caitlin Murphy; Abbie Sims; R Mark Caulkins; Dana Daniel Blake; William M Scogin; Andrea N Bowens; Kathleen E McKeon; Nicholas Washmuth

doi:10.61797/ijcsav.v4i2.260

Song N Bowers Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Davis Henry Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Reed McGuire Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Caitlin Murphy Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Abbie Sims Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
R Mark Caulkins Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Dana Daniel Blake Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
William M Scogin Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Andrea N Bowens Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA
Kathleen E McKeon Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Centers, 805 St. Vincents Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35205, USA
Nicholas Washmuth Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229, USA

DOI: https://doi.org/10.61797/ijcsav.v4i2.260

Keywords: Additional tendon slip, Extensor carpi radialis longus muscle, Anatomical variation, Clinical significance

Abstract

Additional tendon slips of the extensor carpi radialis longus are rare anatomical variants, with incidence ranging from 12-35%. While this anatomical variant is typically benign, it is clinically important as it can contribute to neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. Medical providers should be aware of variations of the wrist extensors during surgeries involving the forearm and wrist. The presence of additional tendons may cause confusion when interpreting imaging findings. This case report details findings of an additional wrist extensor tendon identified during a cadaveric dissection lab in a physical therapist education program.