Dimensional assessment of the tensor fascia lata muscle in fetal cadavers with meningomyelocele for flap surgery

Abstract

Objectives:The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) muscle may be preferred for the closure of superficial dorsal layers in patients with meningomyelocele (MMC). This study aimed to display the algebraic anatomy of TFL in fetal cadavers with MMC compared to that in normal fetuses.Methods: Seven formalin-fixed fetuses with MMC (4 males and 3 females) aged from 18 to 27 weeks of gestation were dissected. A digital caliper (for the length and width of TFL) and digital image analysis software (for the surface area of TFL) were used to perform morphometric measurements. The numerical values of this study were compared with the calculated data obtained from the regression formula of a previously published article, considering fetal cadavers at the same gestational week.Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the quantitative values related to TFL sizes in terms of side and gender (p>0.05). Considering the calculated data obtained from the regression formulas, TFL dimensions in fetal cadavers with MMC did not statistically differ from normal fetuses without any malformations (p>0.05). TFL sizes including length, area, and width in some fetuses with MMC were smaller (3 fetal cadavers) or larger (1 fetal cadaver) than those of normal fetuses described previously. Conclusion:TFL sizes including length, width and surface area in fetal cadavers with MMC were found similar to normal fetuses, statistically. Taking into account the individual differences related to TFL dimensions, whether MMC influences lower extremity muscle morphology should be examined in future studies. This anatomical knowledge related to TFL in fetuses with MMC should be taken into account when designing flap size.