The abductor digiti minimi is the most superficial hypothenar muscle, arising from the pisiform and the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris. Its tendon inserts on the ulnar side of the base of the little finger proximal phalanx and sends a slip into the extensor expansion. It is supplied by the deep branch of the ulnar nerve.
| Muscle |
|
|---|---|
| Attachment | Ulnar side of the base of the proximal phalanx of the little finger |
Abducts the little finger and assists flexion at its metacarpophalangeal joint
Weakness of little finger abduction is a sign of ulnar nerve palsy, and wasting of the hypothenar eminence follows lesions at the elbow or in Guyon canal. The muscle and its tendon can be transferred to restore thumb opposition (Huber transfer) in children with thenar hypoplasia or median nerve palsy. An overactive or tight abductor digiti minimi can hold the little finger abducted.
Ulnar nerve injury at the wrist or elbow causes loss of little finger abduction and hypothenar wasting.
Persistent abduction of the little finger in ulnar palsy, caused by the unopposed extensor digiti minimi pulling on an unbalanced little finger.
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