[Anatomic principles as a prerequisite for the diagnosis of knee-ligament injuries in skiing]

The anatomy of the capsulo-ligamentous structures is most important because of its immense significance for the physiology of the knee joint and its high danger to lesions. On the other hand there exists new knowledge of anatomy which leads to a revision of the importance of the clinical findings. It must be emphasized that the capsule is as essential for the passive stability of the joint as the 4 known main ligaments. Therefore, the instability of varus and valgus must be tested in full extension and in slight flexion of 20 to 30 degrees. To exclude rotatory instability the anterior drawer test of Slocum and Larson (1968) must be routinely performed. If the rotatory drawer sign is positive a lesion of the dorsal capsule and the anterior cruciate ligament is to be suspected.