The effect of tibia-foot rotatory position on the anterior drawer test

The effect of the position of the foot and tibia on the anteroposterior drawer test was quantified using a clinical testing device. Maximum laxity occurred at 15 degrees of external rotation of the foot. Extreme rotation of the foot and tibia resulted in reductions of anteroposterior laxity of 63% for internal rotation and 50% for external rotation. The ratio of foot rotation to tibia rotation was approximately 2:1. Medial meniscectomy alone did not result in increased anteroposterior laxities when compared with normal knees. Medial meniscectomy with an unrepaired anterior cruciate ligament tear resulted in increased anteroposterior laxities at 15 degrees, 30 degrees, and maximum external rotation of the foot.