Subacromial Bursa Wall

paries bursae subacromialis

The subacromial bursa wall is the fibrous lining of the subacromial-subdeltoid bursa, a potential space between the rotator cuff superiorly and the coracoacromial arch and deltoid inferiorly. Its thickened floor blends with the rotator cuff superior surface.

Region: Shoulder

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Reduces friction between the rotator cuff and the coracoacromial arch during shoulder movement, is the site of subacromial bursitis, and provides the surgical landmark for subacromial decompression arthroscopy.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Subacromial bursitis (thickened, inflamed bursa) is both a cause and consequence of rotator cuff pathology. Bursal-sided partial thickness tears of the supraspinatus occur at the bursal wall-cuff interface. Arthroscopic bursectomy and acromioplasty address the thickened bursal wall in impingement syndrome.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Subacromial Bursitis

Bursal wall inflammation and thickening producing subacromial impingement pain, managed by subacromial corticosteroid injection and physiotherapy, with arthroscopic bursectomy for refractory cases.