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Advanced Technical IVT

Linburg-Comstock syndrome

An anatomical variant causing involuntary thumb flexion during index finger flexion.

Full Definition

Linburg-Comstock syndrome is an anatomical variant characterized by an abnormal connection between the flexor pollicis longus (FPL) and flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) to the index finger. This connection can be tendinous, muscular, or fascial and results in involuntary thumb interphalangeal joint flexion when making a fist or flexing the index finger. The condition is usually bilateral and affects approximately 25% of the population. While often asymptomatic, it can cause pain, weakness, or functional limitations in activities requiring independent thumb and finger motion.

Usage

Usage note: Hyphenate the syndrome name; test by asking patient to flex index finger while keeping thumb extended.

In Context

  • "Physical examination revealed classic signs of Linburg-Comstock syndrome with passive thumb flexion during index finger motion." — Clinical assessment
  • "Surgical release of the Linburg-Comstock connection restored independent thumb function." — Operative summary

Also known as

FPL-FDP interconnection

Don't confuse with

flexor tendon adhesions trigger thumb

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