The diagnostic maneuver assesses the integrity of the anterolateral rotatory stability of the knee, particularly in the context of suspected anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The procedure involves flexing the hip and knee to approximately 30 degrees, internally rotating the tibia, and applying a valgus force while gradually extending the knee. A positive result is indicated by a palpable or audible clunk or shift, reflecting subluxation and reduction of the lateral tibial plateau.
This clinical evaluation technique holds considerable importance in the diagnosis of ACL tears, especially when radiographic imaging such as MRI is inconclusive or unavailable. Early and accurate diagnosis facilitates timely intervention, potentially mitigating further intra-articular damage and improving long-term functional outcomes. Its roots can be traced back to early efforts to understand and quantify knee instability, with subsequent refinement leading to its current, widely utilized form.
