The fascial band from semitendinosus to gastrocnemius: the critical point of hamstring harvesting An anatomical study of 23 cadavers

Abstract

Background Arthroscopically-assisted reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with hamstring tendons has achieved widespread acceptance; however, the anatomy of these tendons may cause technical problems at harvesting. Methods We studied the anatomy of the fascial band between semitendinosus and gastrocnemius and the distance between the semitendinosus insertion and the origin of this band in 23 knees from cadavers (17 male). The length of the semitendinosus tendon and the width of the fascial band were also recorded. Results Fascial attachment was detected in all cadavers except 1. The mean width of the band was 2.6 (1–4) cm. The mean distance from the insertion of the semitendinosus to the fascial band was 7 (6–8) cm. The mean length of the semitendinosus tendon was 22 (18–26) cm. Interpretation A better understanding of the anatomy of the hamstring tendons will reduce the risk of a disappointing complication right at the start of the operation.