Knee ACL & PCL Evidence: suggestive

Noyes Flexion-Rotation Drawer Test Special Test

Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide

Noyes Flexion-Rotation Drawer Test Orthopedic Special Test

What is it used for?

  • Diagnosing Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears and ALRI.

How to Perform

  • Position: Patient supine. Examiner holds the leg in 20-30° flexion.
  • Action: The tibia is held in neutral and then allowed to drop posteriorly (if gravity allows) or manually reduced from a subluxated position by flexing the knee.

Interpretation of Results

  • Positive Test: The tibia reduces (moves backward) and the femur rotates externally as the knee is flexed, indicating ACL insufficiency.

References

  • Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.