Popliteal Bursa

bursa poplitea

The popliteal bursa is a small bursa associated with the popliteus tendon in the posterolateral corner, communicating with the knee joint in most people. It is rarely symptomatic in isolation but becomes relevant in posterolateral corner injuries where popliteus tendinopathy may involve the bursa. The bursal complex of the posterior knee includes both the popliteal and semimembranosus-gastrocnemius bursae.

Region: Knee

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Reduces friction between the popliteus tendon and the adjacent bony and capsular structures during knee rotation and flexion

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Popliteal bursa distension produces posterolateral knee pain that must be distinguished from posterolateral corner ligamentous instability, fibular head pathology, and popliteus tendinopathy. The bursa is identified on MRI as a fluid-filled structure adjacent to the popliteus tendon at the lateral femoral condyle.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Popliteal Bursitis

Posterolateral knee bursal inflammation producing pain at the popliteus tendon region, managed with activity modification and targeted corticosteroid injection.