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Olecranon Bursa (Full)

bursa olecrani

The olecranon bursa is one of the largest subcutaneous bursae in the body, providing frictionless skin movement over the prominent olecranon during elbow flexion. Olecranon bursitis from repetitive pressure (student's elbow — prolonged leaning on elbows), direct trauma, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or infection produces a fluctuant posterior elbow swelling that is distinct from the elbow joint. Septic olecranon bursitis is the most common septic bursitis.

Region: Upper Arm

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Allows skin movement over the prominent olecranon tip during elbow flexion

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The most important initial assessment is distinguishing septic from non-septic olecranon bursitis — aspiration with cell count, crystal analysis, and culture is mandatory. Septic bursitis (staph aureus most commonly) requires antibiotics and repeated aspiration; surgical bursectomy for recurrence or chronic infection. Rheumatoid nodules at the olecranon bursa indicate systemic disease.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Septic Olecranon Bursitis

Staphylococcal infection of the olecranon bursa producing painful posterior elbow swelling managed with aspiration, culture, and antibiotics.