What evaluation method is typically used for an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury?

The Lachman test and the Anterior drawer sign are standard evaluation methods used specifically for assessing an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

The Lachman test is particularly valuable because it assesses the quality of the knee's stability by comparing the amount of forward movement of the tibia relative to the femur with the knee in a slight flexed position. This test is often preferred due to its sensitivity in detecting ACL injuries.

The Anterior drawer sign complements this assessment by evaluating the anterior translation of the tibia on the femur when the knee is flexed at a 90-degree angle. This helps to confirm the presence of an ACL tear if there is excessive forward movement of the tibia.

In contrast, while the McMurray test is useful for identifying meniscal tears and the Pivot shift test is also significant for ACL evaluation, they are not as definitive as the Lachman test and the Anterior drawer sign specifically for determining ACL injuries. The Posterior drawer sign is designed to assess posterior stability of the knee, which is not relevant to ACL assessment. Thus, the combination of the Lachman test and the Anterior drawer sign provides the most accurate evaluation for potential ACL injuries.