The Posterior drawer sign is used to assess which ligament injury?

The Posterior drawer sign is used to assess which ligament injury?

• A. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
• B. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
• C. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
• D. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)

Answer: (D)

The Posterior drawer sign is specifically utilized to evaluate injuries to the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL). This test involves the clinician applying a posterior force to the proximal tibia while the knee is flexed to 90 degrees. An excessive posterior movement of the tibia, compared to the femur, is indicative of a PCL tear or injury. In the context of assessing knee stability, various special tests are designed for different ligaments, and the posterior drawer sign is unique to the PCL. Understanding this test is critical for diagnosing knee injuries, as the PCL plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint, particularly in resisting posterior translation of the tibia.

The Posterior drawer sign is specifically utilized to evaluate injuries to the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL). This test involves the clinician applying a posterior force to the proximal tibia while the knee is flexed to 90 degrees. An excessive posterior movement of the tibia, compared to the femur, is indicative of a PCL tear or injury.

In the context of assessing knee stability, various special tests are designed for different ligaments, and the posterior drawer sign is unique to the PCL. Understanding this test is critical for diagnosing knee injuries, as the PCL plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint, particularly in resisting posterior translation of the tibia.