Ballottement Direct

(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)

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:

Performed by applying a sharp tap to the abdominal wall to feel the fetus move away and return. 3. Abdominal Ballottement ballottement

This is the most frequent use of the term. It is used to identify a "floating" kneecap, which indicates a moderate-to-large accumulation of fluid (effusion) within the knee joint.

Suspected knee trauma, arthritis flare-up, or unexplained swelling. Technique: (from the French ballotter , meaning "to toss

The patella is already in contact with the bone; there is no sensation of floating or clicking.

The patient lies flat (supine) with the leg fully extended and relaxed. Abdominal Ballottement This is the most frequent use

In pregnancy, ballottement is a "probable sign" used to detect the fetus as it floats in amniotic fluid.