The palmaris longus tendon is the most superficial tendon at the wrist, visible as a central cord when the wrist is flexed against resistance with the thumb and little finger opposed. It is absent in approximately 14% of individuals and is the most commonly harvested tendon for grafting.
The palmaris longus tendon is assessed by Schaeffer's test (flexing the wrist while opposing thumb and little finger tip). Its absence in 14% of individuals must be identified before planning palmaris graft harvest for tendon repair. When present, it is the first choice for digital flexor tendon graft due to its accessibility and minimal donor site morbidity. It is also used for ligament reconstruction, suspension arthroplasty, and facial reanimation procedures.
Degenerative change or inflammation of the palmaris longus tendon at the wrist producing central palmar wrist pain, an uncommon cause of anterior wrist pain managed conservatively or by excision in refractory cases.
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