The prepatellar bursa, also known as the “kneecap bursa,” is a small fluid-filled sac located just in front of the kneecap (patella) in the knee joint. Its purpose is to reduce friction and cushion the patella, which moves with the knee when it bends and extends. The prepatellar bursa acts as a protective layer, allowing smooth movement of the patella over the underlying tissues, such as muscles and tendons, as the knee joint flexes and extends.
Prepatellar bursitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the prepatellar bursa. This condition is often referred to as “housemaid’s knee” or “carpet layer’s knee” because it can result from repeated or prolonged kneeling on hard surfaces, causing irritation and inflammation of the bursa.
Prepatellar bursitis is typically caused by repetitive trauma or excessive pressure on the kneecap area. Common causes include frequent kneeling, activities that involve pressure on the knee, or direct trauma to the bursa. In some cases, it can also be linked to infections.
Symptoms of prepatellar bursitis often include localized pain, swelling, redness, and warmth over the front of the knee. The affected area may be tender to the touch, and it can limit your ability to bend or extend the knee comfortably.
Diagnosis of prepatellar bursitis typically involves a combination of a comprehensive physical examination, x-rays, and possibly an MRI or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Prepatellar bursitis aksar baghair surgery ke bhi theek ho jati hai. Non-operative treatment of prepatellar bursitis involves a change in activities to avoid movements that cause knee pain, including kneeling. Additionally, using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation, compression over the knee, and physical therapy can help diminish symptoms.
Typically, symptoms will resolve within 2-3 months of conservative, non-surgical treatment. However, when symptoms persist, an aspiration of the bursa can also be attempted.
If your knee pain is resolved with non-operative treatment and you can return to your desired level of activity, then no surgery for prepatellar bursitis is needed. If symptoms persist and you continue to feel limited, then Dr. Bryan Penalosa can discuss potential surgical treatment options for prepatellar bursitis with you.
If non-surgical treatments don’t provide relief or if the prepatellar bursitis is recurrent and severe, surgical treatment may be considered. Surgical treatment for prepatellar bursitis includes a prepatellar bursectomy. During this procedure, the prepatellar bursa is removed and the surrounding tissue is debrided.
Typically, patients recover very well following prepatellar bursitis surgery. Immediately following surgery, you will be allowed to bear weight on the operative leg as you feel comfortable. Physical therapy will begin within the first 1-2 days following surgery to begin restoration of range of motion and muscle strength. Full recovery typically takes about 2-3 months.
