Prepatellar (Kneecap) Bursitis

Prepatellar bursitis is an inflammation of the prepatellar bursa. Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs positioned between bones and surrounding soft tissues, which act as cushions to help reduce friction between the different structures. They are found in many parts of the body. The prepatellar bursa is located in front of the patella (kneecap). When bursae become inflamed, they produce an excessive amount of fluid, which causes them to become swollen and press on the surrounding tissues.

Here at YourOrthoSolution, we have some of the top orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians in the country. Our caring team always goes that extra step to make you feel like part of our family. We specialize in knee conditions of this sort and are dedicated to getting you back to the things you love through a customized plan that fits only you. We have extensive experience in treating knee bursitis and want to help you start the healing process as quickly as possible to get you on the path to recovery.

Cause

Several factors can cause or increase the likelihood of developing prepatellar bursitis. These include:

• Pressure from constant kneeling
• Blow to the front of knee – either from a direct hit to knee or from falling onto the front of the knee
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Infection in the area of the knee that travels into the bursa – this cause inflammation and an infection

Symptoms

Prepatellar bursitis typically causes these symptoms at the front of the knee:

• Pain – especially with activity
• Swelling – which may appear suddenly
• Tenderness (pain when being touched)
• Skin that feels warm when touched

If the bursitis is caused by an infection, the skin over the bursa may also be red.

Treatment

Nonsurgical

Nonsurgical treatments are usually very effective, unless infection is present. These treatments may include:

• Rest
• Ice or other types of cold therapy
• Elevation of the knee
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen) – these may reduce pain and inflammation
• Antibiotics – these will be prescribed if your doctor thinks the bursa is infected
• Corticosteroid injection into the bursa
• Needle aspiration – in this procedure, your doctor will use a needle to drain fluid from the bursa. After removing the fluid, you doctor may then inject a corticosteroid.

Surgical

If significant symptoms persist despite nonsurgical treatment, surgery may occasionally be considered. Surgery may also be performed if an infected bursa does not improve with antibiotics. Surgery consists of removing the prepatellar bursa. This is usually performed by making a small incision in the front of the knee. YourOrthoSolution is always keeping you, the patient, in mind and looking for the least-invasive way to repair all injuries.

This surgical procedure is easily performed in an outpatient setting. There are many advantages to outpatient surgery centers versus hospitals, including better outcomes, lower infection rates, no overnight stay, lower costs, and the convenience that comes with a smaller, yet highly skilled, staff. As with all our procedures, the goal is to get you back to full strength and doing the activities you want to do. Our highly trained specialists will take into account several factors and create a customized treatment plan specially for you and your needs.

At YourOrthoSolution, all of our doctors and staff are committed to ensuring that you not only receive the best orthopedic care in the area but also have an exceptional experience each time you visit our locations. Our dedicated staff will handle all insurance processes for you. You can expect to be in a friendly atmosphere and receive top orthopedic treatment to help you return to full mobility as quickly as possible.