Anterior Drawer Test: Sensitivity and Specificity

Note that when the anterior drawer test has been studied using the KT-1000 arthrometer. This provides an objective measure to the anterior drawer test. When performed with the KT-1000 arthrometer, the sensitivity and specificity will vary based on the amount of force applied and the threshold chosen for anterior tibial motion. For a 30 lbs test with >3mm as diagnostic threshold for ACL tear the sensitivity and specificity have been reported as 77% and 90%.

The anterior drawer test has been studied with objective measurements using ultrasonography. The sensitivity and specificity were reported as 96% and 98% though the cut off displacement distance appears to have been decided upon after the data was examied. See PMID 10401653