This test is highly specific for large effusions but may miss smaller amounts of fluid, which are better detected using the Bulge Sign . 2. Obstetric Ballottement
While maintaining pressure with the first hand, use the index finger of the other hand to sharply push the patella downward toward the femur (thigh bone). Findings: ballottement
The clinician inserts two fingers into the vagina and gives a sharp upward tap against the lower segment of the uterus. If the fetus is present and not yet engaged in the pelvis, it will float upward and then fall back, tapping against the clinician’s fingers. This test is highly specific for large effusions
(from the French ballotter , meaning "to toss about") is a medical physical examination technique used to detect floating objects within a fluid-filled cavity. It is most commonly applied in orthopedics to check for knee swelling, in obstetrics to assess pregnancy, and in general medicine to evaluate abdominal organs. 1. Patellar Ballottement (Knee Effusion Test) Findings: The clinician inserts two fingers into the
In pregnancy, ballottement is a "probable sign" used to detect the fetus as it floats in amniotic fluid.