The anterior drawer test for the ankle assesses stability of which ligament?

• A. Anterior talofibular ligament
• B. Calcaneofibular ligament
• C. Posterior talofibular ligament
• D. Deltoid ligament

Answer: (A)

The anterior drawer test for the ankle is primarily utilized to assess the stability of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). This ligament is one of the most commonly injured ligaments in ankle sprains, particularly those that occur when the ankle is rolled or inverted.

During the test, the clinician stabilizes the tibia and fibula while pulling the heel forward. A positive test result—characterized by excessive forward movement of the ankle—indicates a potential injury or instability of the anterior talofibular ligament.

The other ligaments mentioned play different roles in ankle stability. The calcaneofibular ligament, while involved in lateral ankle stability, is not directly tested by the anterior drawer test. The posterior talofibular ligament primarily stabilizes the ankle in a different manner and is not assessed by this specific test. The deltoid ligament, located on the medial side of the ankle, is involved in stabilizing the joint against eversion injuries and is not part of the assessment in the anterior drawer test, which focuses on the lateral structures of the ankle.