The popliteal (popliteus) bursa, also called the subpopliteal recess, lies beneath the popliteus tendon at the posterolateral corner, extending from the popliteal hiatus of the lateral meniscus down toward the tibia. It usually communicates with the knee joint and sometimes with the proximal tibiofibular joint, so it fills with fluid in any significant knee effusion. It is rarely symptomatic in isolation but becomes relevant in posterolateral corner injuries where popliteus tendinopathy may involve the bursa.
| Location | Beneath the popliteus tendon at the posterolateral knee, between the tendon and the lateral femoral condyle, lateral meniscus and tibial margin (the subpopliteal recess) |
|---|---|
| Nearby |
|
Reduces friction between the popliteus tendon and the adjacent bony and capsular structures during knee rotation and flexion
Popliteal bursa distension produces posterolateral knee pain that must be distinguished from posterolateral corner ligamentous instability, fibular head pathology, and popliteus tendinopathy. On MRI, joint fluid tracking along the popliteus tendon within the bursa should not be mistaken for a popliteus muscle tear or a lateral meniscal cyst. The popliteal hiatus is also used arthroscopically to view the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus.
Posterolateral knee bursal inflammation producing pain at the popliteus tendon region, managed with activity modification and targeted corticosteroid injection.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
