Sinus tarsi | |
---|---|
Synonyms | Talocalcaneal sulcus |
Identifiers | |
TA98 | A02.5.11.009 |
TA2 | 1476 |
FMA | 35138 |
Anatomical terminology |
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] which is however a distinct 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 (CL), 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]
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]
Sinus tarsi syndrome is a clinical disorder of pain and tenderness in the sinus tarsi. This disorder can have a variety of causes: the most common is an inversion ankle sprain.[4]
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.[5][6]