The septa of Legueu and Juvara: an anatomic study.

Purpose: To study the anatomy of the septa of Legueu and Juvara and interpalmar plate ligaments (IPPLs) of the hand.

Materials: Eleven cadaver hands were dissected. The number, attachments, dimensions, and relationships of the septa and IPPLs to other structures were determined.

Results: Eight septa were identified radial and ulnar for each digit. The radial were longer than the ulnar septa. The septa attached to the transverse ligament of the palmar aponeurosis superficially and to the soft-tissue confluence deeper and distally. They formed 7 compartments of 2 types flexor septal canals that contained the flexor tendons and web space canals that contained common digital nerves and arteries and lumbrical muscles. Grossly and histologically the septa were thicker and consisted of organized collagen distally but not proximally. Three IPPLs were identified: radial, central, and ulnar. These formed the floors of the second, third, and fourth web space canals. The IPPLs were more substantial, thicker, and had more fibrous appearance from radial to ulnar. The fibers of the radial and central IPPLs were oriented transversely, whereas those of the ulnar IPPL were oriented obliquely.

Conclusions: Awareness of the anatomy of deep retinacular structures of the hand is important for surgical exposure in this area and possible involvement in conditions such as Dupuytren's disease.