bursa

Last reviewed 01/2018

A bursa is a fluid-filled space lined by endothelium. They function to permit free movement between apposing tendon, bone and skin.

There are a number of well-defined bursae:

  • olecranon bursa
  • pre-patellar bursa
  • infra-patellar bursa
  • ischial bursa
  • trochanteric bursa
  • gluteofemoral bursa

Also, bursae may form at the sites of repeated friction between two layers: adventitious bursae.

Bursae may become inflamed or infected.