Abductor Digiti Minimi: Key Hand Muscle with Unique Innervation
The abductor digiti minimi, a key muscle in the hand, has a unique function and notable innervation. Its primary role is to abduct the little finger, aiding in grasping, and it's innervated by two main nerves.
The abductor digiti minimi, shaped like a spindle, is a strong skeletal muscle. It's attached to the pisiform bone in the wrist and connects to the first and second joints of the little finger. Apart from abducting the little finger, it also assists in flexing the joint of the first knuckle.
This muscle is innervated by two nerves. Primarily, it's controlled by the deep branch of the ulnar nerve. Additionally, the lateral plantar nerve, a branch of the tibial nerve, also plays a role in its function. This unique innervation allows for precise control over the little finger's movement.
The abductor digiti minimi, with its primary function of abducting the little finger and assisting in grasping, is a crucial muscle in hand function. Its innervation by both the ulnar and tibial nerves ensures precise control, and its strength makes it a useful donor muscle in opponensplasty surgeries.
