Aim of the study: Ultrasound examination is widely used in orthopedic diagnostics, however
sonographic evaluation of traumatic anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency is still
inadequate. Aim of this study is to evaluate diagnostic capability of a new sonographicallyguided
test for diagnosing complete anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency. Material and
methods: In 47 patients, with suspicion of unilateral anterior cruciate ligament injury
(based on magnetic resonance imaging), the sonographically-guided test for anterior
instability was performed. The translation of the intercondylar eminence against the patellar tendon was measured in both knees. Afterwards all patients underwent arthroscopy.
Results: In 37 patients, with arthroscopically confirmed complete anterior cruciate
ligament insufficiency, the mean anterior knee translation was 8.3 mm (SD = 2.8)
in affected knee vs. 3 mm (SD = 1.1) in uninjured knee (p < 0.001). In 10 patients with
no anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency the difference between body sides was not
significant (2.6 mm, SD = 1.4 in injured knee vs. 2.5 mm, SD = 1.1 in uninjured joint;
p < 0.7753). Conclusions: The proposed test supports the clinician with fast and noninvasive
examination that can facilitate evaluation of anterior knee instability.