Absence of fourth slip of flexor digitorum brevis in Nepalese population

Background: Flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), the most superficial muscle among the muscles of the sole, comprises four tendons running to the lateral four digits. Each tendon splits into two, providing the gap for the flexor digitorum longus to pass through and are inserted into the second to fifth middle phalanges. Several variations of FDB have been reported earlier around the world but only one study showing the absence of fourth tendon has been reported so far in Nepal that too has conflicting outcome compared to the present study. Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to document the absence of the fourth tendon of FDB to the little toe in the Nepalese community, as well as to highlight the fact that there are variances within the Nepalese setting. Materials and Methods: The present study involved an examination of 30 cadavers [male], enabling us in a total of 60 intact feet collected over a 2-year period. Results: Out of 60 feet in toto, we found only two (3.33%) of those lacked the fourth tendon of Flexor Digitorum Brevis to the little toe, which was notably lesser than previously reported 100% absence in Nepalese population. Conclusion: The disparity in such data could be attributable to the Nepalese community's diversity, which could indicate the presence of ethnic significance. The probable difference due to ethnic diversity in the Nepalese population should be taken into account for the medical procedure