A 26-year-old footballer sustains an acute haemarthrosis after a twisting knee injury. Radiographs show a small avulsion fracture from the lateral tibial condyle just below the joint line. Which structure is most likely injured?
- A Posterior cruciate ligament
- B Anterior cruciate ligament ✓
- C Medial collateral ligament
- D Common peroneal nerve
Correct answer: B. Anterior cruciate ligament
Explanation
The Segond fracture is an avulsion of the anterolateral capsule, specifically the anterolateral ligament complex, from the lateral tibial plateau. It is highly associated with ACL rupture, occurring in the majority of cases, and also raises suspicion for lateral meniscal injury. MCL injuries produce medial-sided findings, PCL injuries cause posterior drawer signs, and peroneal nerve injury presents with foot drop rather than this radiographic sign.
Reference: DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, 5th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.