The Ankle Anterior Drawer Test assesses the integrity of which ligament?

The Ankle Anterior Drawer Test is specifically designed to evaluate the integrity of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). This test is performed by stabilizing the tibia and fibula with one hand while pulling the heel forward with the other hand. A positive test, indicated by increased anterior translation of the talus in relation to the tibia, suggests injury or laxity of the ATFL.

The anterior talofibular ligament is critical in providing stability to the ankle, particularly in preventing excessive forward translation of the talus. Injuries to this ligament are common in ankle sprains, particularly those that occur during inversion of the foot.

While the deltoid ligament and calcaneofibular ligament are also important for ankle stability, they are not specifically assessed by the anterior drawer test. The deltoid ligament is a complex structure on the medial side of the ankle, and the calcaneofibular ligament is located on the lateral aspect but does not primarily resist the anterior translation of the talus. The plantar ligament, relating to the arch of the foot, does not play a role in the stability assessed by this test. Thus, the anterior talofibular ligament is the correct answer, reflecting the primary focus of