Posterior Acromial Bursa

bursa acromialis posterior

The posterior acromial bursa is a small bursa located between the posterior acromion and the underlying infraspinatus and teres minor tendons, distinct from the subacromial bursa which is primarily anterior. It may become inflamed in posterior rotator cuff pathology or following posterior shoulder approaches. It is encountered during the posterior arthroscopic portal approach to the glenohumeral joint.

Region: Shoulder

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The posterior acromial bursa is relevant in posterior shoulder surgeries and approaches. During the standard posterior arthroscopic portal placement for shoulder arthroscopy, the trocar passes through the posterior deltoid, the infraspinatus, and the posterior capsule; the posterior acromial bursa is encountered between the posterior acromion and the cuff just before capsular penetration. Posterior acromial bursitis may produce a discrete posterior shoulder pain distinct from posterior labral pathology, managed by targeted injection into the posterior bursal space under ultrasound guidance.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Posterior Acromial Bursitis in Overhead Athletes

Repetitive overhead activity with posterior shoulder internal impingement can inflame the posterior acromial bursa, producing posterior shoulder pain distinct from subacromial impingement; ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection into the posterior bursa confirms the diagnosis and provides therapeutic benefit alongside posterior capsular stretching.