Anterior translation is the forward movement of the tibia in relation to the femur when the doctor performs the anterior drawer test. It usually implies a torn cruciate ligament.
Page updated December 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
The examiner is pulling on the upper part of the tibia and seeing how much forward movement is possible.
Attachments of the normal anterior cruciate ligament
The anterior cruciate ligament reaches from the tibial spines to the roof of the notch of the femur, preventing the tibia from slipping forward in relation to the femur.
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Peer-reviewed papers
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Quote:
"The main functional role of the ACL is to provide stability against anterior tibial translation..."
Citation: Domnick C, Raschke MJ, Herbort M. Biomechanics of the anterior cruciate ligament: Physiology, rupture and reconstruction techniques. World J Orthop. 2016 Feb 18;7(2):82-93. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v7.i2.82. PMID: 26925379; PMCID: PMC4757662.
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