Prevalence of agenesis of flexor digitorum superficialis of the fifth digit in East Africa through clinical examination

Abstract

Introduction The flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) is a flexor of the digits of the hand and has been reported to have varying rates of agenesis. We conducted a study to determine the prevalence of agenesis of the FDS in an East African population by clinical examination. Materials and methods A prospective study was conducted using three clinical tests among patients and students in a large teaching hospital in East Africa to determine the presence of the FDS in the fifth digit. Results The overall rate of absence was 2.5% with unilateral absence at 1.5% and bilateral absence at 1.0%. The overall difference between males and females was not statistically significant (p=0.654). Discussion Our findings are in contrast to many studies worldwide. There is a paucity of studies on the subject in Africa which hinders adequate comparison. Conclusion The prevalence of the absence of the FDS to the fifth digit in East Africa has been determined. Surgeons should acquaint themselves with prevalence in their areas of practice. Key words: FDS, prevalence, clinical tests