Exploring the Learning Curve of Medical Students in Orthopedic Special Tests for ACL Tear Diagnosis

Abstract

Objectives Teaching medical students proper physical examination techniques is an integral component of their clinical training. Multiple physical examination tests exist in orthopedics, with tests for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears being conducted frequently due to the prevalence of this injury. The three most common physical examination tests are Lachman's test, anterior drawer test, and Lilli's test. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical accuracy, competence, and motor skill acquisition of medical students while performing these tests. Methods Four patients with a complete ACL tear were selected using a cross-sectional study design. Over the course of one month, the four patients were examined for ACL injury using the three specialized tests. The results of these examinations were recorded, and a statistical evaluation of the student's performance and diagnostic metrics was conducted. Results In terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy, we find that the Lachman's and anterior drawer tests perform considerably lower than Lilli's test. When compared to the other tests, students demonstrated a faster learning curve for Lilli's test. Conclusion Orthopedic special tests are notoriously difficult for medical students, despite their apparent simplicity. Special tests that are less technically demanding (Lilli's) have a shorter learning curve and can be implemented more rapidly by the students. Level of Evidence: Level 4, Cross sectional Descriptive