Clinical evaluation of acromioclavicular joint pathology: sensitivity of a new test
BACKGROUND: A prospective study was established to assess the sensitivity of the newly described Bell-van Riet (BvR) test for isolated AC pathology, and compare with 4 commonly used clinical tests.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The BvR test is essentially the cross-adduction test, with the addition of attempted elevation against resistance. In a positive test, this results in some pain and the inability of the patient to maintain the arm in the adducted and elevated position against resistance. Fifty-eight patients with isolated AC joint symptoms were assessed in random order with the BvR test and 4 other tests. A corticosteroid and local anaesthetic injection was administered into the AC joint space. The BvR test and 4 other tests were then repeated following the injection. After the injection, a symptom free clinical examination was used as a measure of truly positive tests.
RESULTS: The BvR test showed a sensitivity of 98%. All 4 other tests were less sensitive.
CONCLUSION: The BvR test is a highly sensitive test in patients presenting with isolated AC related symptoms, and demonstrates AC joint pathology better than other accepted tests.
Full Text Links
Find Full Text Links for this Article
You are not logged in. Sign Up or Log In to join the discussion.