title: Extensor apparatus of the lesser toes: anatomy with clinical implications--topical review.
abstract: Lesser toe deformities are one of the most common conditions faced by orthopedic surgeons. Knowledge of the anatomy of the lesser toes is important for ensuring correct diagnosis and treatment of deformities, which are caused by factors such as muscle imbalance between the extensor apparatus and flexor tendons. However, this apparatus has not received sufficient attention in the literature. In addition, the large number of inaccurate and erroneous descriptions means that gaining an understanding of these structures is problematic. The objective of the present article is to clarify the anatomy of the extensor apparatus by means of a pictorial essay, in which the structures involved will be grouped and discussed in detail. The most relevant clinical implications will be addressed.
  
  
  METHODS
  Level V, expert opinion.
authors.affiliation: University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
authors.forename: Miquel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dalmau-Pastor
authors.affiliation: University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
authors.forename: Betlem
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Fargues
authors.affiliation: University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
authors.forename: Enric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Alcolea
authors.affiliation: University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
authors.forename: Nerea
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Martínez-Franco
authors.affiliation: Private practice, Balearic Islands, Spain.
authors.forename: Patricia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Ruiz-Escobar
authors.affiliation: Unit of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Hospital Quirón, Barcelona, Spain jordivega@hotmail.com.
authors.forename: Jordi
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vega
authors.affiliation: University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
authors.forename: Pau
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Golanó
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008022:Ligaments / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D013710:Tendons / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014034:Toes / Q000033:anatomy & histology*
keywords: anatomy; extensor apparatus; lesser toe deformities; orthopedic surgery