Tensor vastus intermedius: a review of its discovery, morphology and clinical importance
Abstract
Background: This review aims to summarise the relevant literature surrounding the tensor vastus intermedius, a newly discovered muscle, and to discuss its morphology and potential clinical importance. No such review currently exists in the literature.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive literature search regarding the tensor vastus intermedius was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar in July 2020. Principles of Evidence-Based Anatomy and the Anatomical Quality Assessment Tool were employed to ensure a high-level review. All relevant papers were included and citation tracking was performed to uncover further publications.
Results: The tensor vastus intermedius is found in the anterior compartment of the thigh and has a similar morphology to the other vasti muscles. It has four main variations and a consistent neurovascular supply. The muscle has been implicated in a number of case reports and surgical procedures, which are described in detail in this paper.
Conclusions: In the 4 years since the tensor vastus intermedius was formally described, a significant amount of work has been done to help us understand its structure and function. Further efforts are needed to gain a full picture as to its clinical importance. As such, it is recommended that this muscle should be acknowledged in anatomical education.
Keywords: tensor vastus intermediusquadriceps femoris muscle groupquinticepsextensor apparatus of the kneeanatomical discovery
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