Disorders of the ankle and foot: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
The anterior drawer test of the ankle is primarily used to assess the integrity of which of the following ligaments?
A. Deltoid ligament
B. Posterior talofibular ligament
C. Anterior talofibular ligament
D. Calcaneofibular ligament
E. Tibiofibular syndesmosis
Answer and topic summary
The answer is C. Anterior talofibular ligament
Ankle sprains are common and typically happen due to inversion-like movement on a plantar-flexed foot. The most common ligament injured in an ankle sprain is the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). On physical exam, you should appreciate drawer laxity in plantar flexion (via the anterior drawer test). The anterior drawer test of the ankle assesses the integrity of the ATFL. Typically performed with the patient supine or prone, the knee flexed, and the ankle in 10°–20° of plantarflexion. A positive test, indicating a potential ATFL tear or sprain, is marked by increased forward (anterior) translation of the talus relative to the tibia compared to the uninjured side. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, ecchymosis, and pain with weight bearing. Radiographs should be obtained per the Ottawa ankle rules. Treatment is typically non-operative (RICE followed by early mobilization).
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Musculoskeletal ⇒ ⇒
Also covered as part of the Family Medicine EOR and Emergency Medicine EOR topic lists
