Which test is specifically used to assess the posterior cruciate ligament?

• A. Lachman’s test
• B. Sag sign (Godfrey’s test)
• C. Posterior drawer test
• D. McMurray’s test

Answer: (C)

The posterior drawer test directly assesses the posterior cruciate ligament because the PCL's main role is to prevent the tibia from translating backward relative to the femur. In this test, with the knee bent about 90 degrees and the thigh stabilized, a posterior force is applied to the tibia. If the tibia moves too far backward or there is a soft or absent end feel, it indicates PCL laxity or rupture.

Lachman’s test targets the ACL with anterior tibial translation, and McMurray’s test checks meniscal pathology. The sag sign (Godfrey’s test) can indicate a PCL problem by showing posterior sag of the tibia, but the posterior drawer test more directly and specifically gauges posterior tibial translation, making it the best choice to assess the PCL.