Dorsal interossei of the hand

Dorsal interossei of the hand is a group of four muscles in the human hand. These muscles are part of the interossei muscles of the hand, which also include the palmar interossei muscles. The dorsal interossei are located between the metacarpal bones and are responsible for the abduction of the second to fourth fingers away from the middle finger.

Etymology

The term "interossei" is derived from the Latin words "inter", meaning "between", and "os", meaning "bone". This refers to the location of these muscles between the metacarpal bones. The term "dorsal" refers to the back side of the hand, where these muscles are located.

Anatomy

The dorsal interossei muscles originate from the adjacent sides of the metacarpal bones and insert into the bases of the proximal phalanges and the extensor expansions. Each muscle is innervated by the deep branch of the ulnar nerve.

Function

The primary function of the dorsal interossei muscles is to abduct the second to fourth fingers away from the middle finger. This is in contrast to the palmar interossei, which adduct the fingers towards the middle finger. The dorsal interossei also assist in flexion of the metacarpophalangeal joints and extension of the interphalangeal joints.

Clinical significance

Damage to the dorsal interossei can result in a loss of finger abduction and can affect the ability to perform fine motor tasks. This can be caused by injury or conditions such as ulnar nerve palsy.

Related terms

• Interossei muscles
• Palmar interossei muscles
• Metacarpal bones
• Proximal phalanges
• Deep branch of the ulnar nerve
• Ulnar nerve palsy

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