Peroneus longus tear and its relation to the peroneal tubercle: A review of the literature

Tear of the peroneal tendon may occur in different anatomical sites. The most prevalent site is around the lateral malleolus. Tear of the peroneus longus at the level of the peroneal tubercle is unusual. Anatomically, the lateral surface of the calcaneous can be divided into thirds. The middle third includes the peroneal tubercle, which separates the peroneus longus tendon from the peroneus brevis. An anatomic variation of the peroneal tubercle may lead to chronic irritation of the peroneus longus tendon that could ultimately cause a longitudinal tear.
We conducted this review aiming to clarify the anatomy, biomechanics of the tendon, and the clinical features of tear of the peroneus longus tendon on the lateral surface of the calcaneous due to an enlarged peroneal tubercle. In addition, we reviewed the diagnostic and treatment options of peroneal tendon tears at this site.