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The posterolateral drawer test is important for assessing the integrity of the popliteus components of the knee. The starting point for this test is similar to the posterior drawer test, but the foot is externally rotated about 15°. With this test a coupled posterior force and external rotation torque is applied to the tibia to determine the amount of rotation of the tibial tubercle that occurs compared tp the distal femur. This test is unique for each patient and it is important to compare to the contralateral side to see the amount of increased external rotation that occurs. A positive posterolateral drawer test is usually indicative of a grade III posterolateral corner injury with injuries to the popliteofibular ligament and popliteus tendon.
