Sinus tarsi
Section of the hindfoot
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The sinus tarsi, also known as the talocalcaneal sulcus,[1] is a cylindrical canal in the hindfoot. It has a complex anatomy, with five ligamentous structures and a pad of adipose tissue (fat).[2] The tarsal canal opens up into the sinus tarsi,[3] however, the tarsal canal is a distinct structure.
| Sinus tarsi | |
|---|---|
A labeled diagram of the foot bones, with the sinus tarsi labeled (upper right; next to Tarsus label) | |
| Synonyms | Talocalcaneal sulcus |
| Identifiers | |
| TA98 | A02.5.11.009 |
| TA2 | 1476 |
| FMA | 35138 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
Structure
The sinus tarsi located in the hindfoot, it is contained by the calcaneus, talus, talocalcaneonavicular joint, and the bottom of the subtalar joint.[1] There are five ligamentous structures present inside it: the intermediate, medial, and lateral roots of the inferior extensor retinaculum; the cervical ligament, and the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament. There is also a pad of adipose tissue.[2] The tarsal canal also opens up into the sinus tarsi.[3]
Physiology
The sinus tarsi helps stabilize the ankle, as the cervical ligament limits inversion of the (turning in) and the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament limits eversion (turning out).[2]
Clinical significance
Prior to the discovery of sinus tarsi syndrome, the sinus tarsi was not well studied and was seen as irrelevant.[4]
Sinus tarsi syndrome
Sinus tarsi syndrome is a clinical disorder of pain and tenderness in the sinus tarsi. This disorder can have a variety of causes; however, the most common is an inversion ankle sprain.[5]
Surgery access
In recent years, approaching a displaced intra-articular calcaneus fracture via the sinus tarsi during surgery has been found to be more efficient in reconstructing the bone and less invasive, preserving soft tissue around the bone.[6][7]