A fractal anterior digastric: a case report with surgical implications

Matthew J. ZDILLA, Hannah J. S

Abstract

A unique asymmetrical digastric muscle variant was discovered during glossectomy of a cadaver. The muscle gave rise to two smaller accessory bellies which, likewise, gave rise to another two smaller accessory bellies supported by a fascial sling. Although variant anatomy of the anterior belly of the digastric is common, we report a new structural presentation. Understanding the diverse anatomical variety among digastric muscles is particularly important with regard to both surgery and differential diagnosis of space occupying lesions in the submental triangle.

Relevant Publications in International Journal of Anatomical Variations