Which ligaments are tested for coronal plane stability at the knee?

The correct answer focuses on the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL), which are specifically responsible for providing stability to the knee in the coronal plane. The MCL is located on the inner side of the knee and prevents excessive valgus forces (inward angulation), while the LCL is found on the outer side of the knee and counteracts excessive varus forces (outward angulation). Testing these ligaments helps assess the stability of the knee during movements that might otherwise compromise its integrity in the coronal plane.

The anterior cruciate and posterior cruciate ligaments primarily function to control anterior-posterior movement and rotational stability rather than coronal stability. The patellar ligament and iliotibial band provide stabilization but do not specifically stabilize the knee against coronal plane movements. Lastly, the popliteal ligament and menisci are involved in overall knee stability and load-bearing but do not directly test for coronal plane stability. Thus, the focus on the MCL and LCL is essential for evaluating how well the knee can resist lateral forces during activities.