What does a positive McMurray's sign indicate?

What does a positive McMurray's sign indicate?

• A. A possible fracture of the patella
• B. A possible tear of the meniscus
• C. A dislocation of the knee joint
• D. An injury to the collateral ligaments

Answer: (B)

A positive McMurray's sign is indicative of a possible tear of the meniscus. This test is specifically designed to assess the integrity of the menisci in the knee, which are crucial for cushioning and stabilizing the joint. During the McMurray test, the clinician performs specific movements while manipulating the knee and observes for a "click" or pain, which suggests that the meniscal tissue may be damaged. When the knee is bent and then rotated during the test, the clinician is essentially placing stress on the meniscus. If there is a tear, the irregular edges may catch or lock during movement, resulting in the characteristic sounds or sensations associated with a positive result. The location of the click can also help differentiate between medial and lateral meniscal tears, further affirming the diagnosis. Other options do not relate specifically to the function or assessment of the meniscus in this manner. A patellar fracture, dislocation, or collateral ligament injury would be examined through different specific tests or indicators, and therefore would not yield a positive McMurray's sign.

A positive McMurray's sign is indicative of a possible tear of the meniscus. This test is specifically designed to assess the integrity of the menisci in the knee, which are crucial for cushioning and stabilizing the joint. During the McMurray test, the clinician performs specific movements while manipulating the knee and observes for a "click" or pain, which suggests that the meniscal tissue may be damaged.

When the knee is bent and then rotated during the test, the clinician is essentially placing stress on the meniscus. If there is a tear, the irregular edges may catch or lock during movement, resulting in the characteristic sounds or sensations associated with a positive result. The location of the click can also help differentiate between medial and lateral meniscal tears, further affirming the diagnosis.

Other options do not relate specifically to the function or assessment of the meniscus in this manner. A patellar fracture, dislocation, or collateral ligament injury would be examined through different specific tests or indicators, and therefore would not yield a positive McMurray's sign.