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Ch. 11 The Muscular System
Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology 11th Edition
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew11th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136874089Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 11, Problem 23

Elongated bursae that reduce friction and surround the tendons that cross the posterior and anterior surfaces of the wrist form___.

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1
Understand the anatomical structures involved: bursae are fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tissues such as bone, muscle, and tendons.
Recognize that the question refers to bursae that are elongated and surround tendons crossing the wrist on both the anterior and posterior sides.
Recall that bursae surrounding tendons, especially those that form a sheath around them, are called synovial tendon sheaths or tendon sheaths.
Identify that these elongated bursae specifically reduce friction for tendons moving within confined spaces like the wrist, allowing smooth movement.
Conclude that the correct term for these elongated bursae surrounding wrist tendons is 'tendon sheaths,' which are specialized bursae that encase the tendons.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Bursae

Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs located around joints that reduce friction between moving structures such as bones, tendons, and muscles. They help facilitate smooth movement and prevent wear and tear during repetitive motions.
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Additional Features

Tendon Sheaths

Tendon sheaths are specialized elongated bursae that surround tendons, especially where they pass over joints. These sheaths contain synovial fluid, which lubricates the tendons, reducing friction and allowing smooth gliding during movement.
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Tendon Reflex

Anatomy of the Wrist

The wrist contains multiple tendons crossing its anterior and posterior surfaces, each often enclosed by tendon sheaths. Understanding the wrist's anatomy is essential to identify structures like tendon sheaths that protect tendons and facilitate hand and wrist movements.
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Overview of the Wrist and Hand