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Lesser Trochanter Snapping Bursa

bursa trochanteris minoris

The lesser trochanteric snapping bursa is an adventitial bursa developing between the iliopsoas tendon and the lesser trochanter in patients with internal snapping hip (coxa saltans interna). The iliopsoas tendon snaps audibly over the iliopectineal eminence or the lesser trochanter during hip flexion and extension, producing a bursitis at the snap point.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Internal coxa saltans (snapping hip from iliopsoas) produces an audible and palpable snap at the anterior hip during hip flexion from extension, reproduced on examination by passive hip flexion and rotation. The snap occurs when the iliopsoas tendon moves over the iliopectineal eminence or the femoral head-lesser trochanter complex. The associated bursitis produces anterior hip pain and groin tenderness. Dynamic ultrasound confirms the tendon snap. Treatment is iliopsoas tendon stretching and eccentric strengthening; corticosteroid injection into the iliopsoas bursa and rarely arthroscopic iliopsoas tendon release for refractory cases.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Internal Snapping Hip with Lesser Trochanter Bursitis

The iliopsoas tendon snapping over the lesser trochanter or iliopectineal eminence during hip motion produces an internal coxa saltans with an audible snap and anterior hip pain; dynamic ultrasound confirms the snap and bursal inflammation, managed by stretching, injection, and in refractory cases by arthroscopic iliopsoas tendon release through the hip joint.