Which two common tests are used to assess ACL integrity?

Which two common tests are used to assess ACL integrity?

• A. Anterior drawer test and McMurray test
• B. Lachman test and anterior drawer test
• C. Patellar tendon test and pivot shift test
• D. Varus stress test and valgus stress test

Answer: (B)

The Lachman test and the anterior drawer test are both key assessments used to evaluate the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. The Lachman test is often considered one of the most reliable tests for ACL injuries because it places the knee in a flexed position, allowing the examiner to apply an anterior force on the tibia while stabilizing the femur. A significant amount of tibial translation or laxity compared to the other knee indicates ACL insufficiency. The anterior drawer test also evaluates the ACL by assessing the amount of anterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur when the knee is flexed at approximately 90 degrees. A positive result, characterized by excessive anterior movement, further suggests ACL damage. In contrast, the McMurray test is focused on the menisci, the pivot shift test is used to assess ACL functionality during dynamic activities, and the varus and valgus stress tests evaluate collateral ligament stability rather than the ACL. Therefore, the selection of the Lachman test and the anterior drawer test as common assessments for ACL integrity is well-supported by clinical practice.

The Lachman test and the anterior drawer test are both key assessments used to evaluate the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee.

The Lachman test is often considered one of the most reliable tests for ACL injuries because it places the knee in a flexed position, allowing the examiner to apply an anterior force on the tibia while stabilizing the femur. A significant amount of tibial translation or laxity compared to the other knee indicates ACL insufficiency.

The anterior drawer test also evaluates the ACL by assessing the amount of anterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur when the knee is flexed at approximately 90 degrees. A positive result, characterized by excessive anterior movement, further suggests ACL damage.

In contrast, the McMurray test is focused on the menisci, the pivot shift test is used to assess ACL functionality during dynamic activities, and the varus and valgus stress tests evaluate collateral ligament stability rather than the ACL. Therefore, the selection of the Lachman test and the anterior drawer test as common assessments for ACL integrity is well-supported by clinical practice.