Synovial Membranes and Bursa

MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA
COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS
REHABILITATION SCIENCES DEPARTMENT

Synovial Membranes and Bursa

The synovial membranes line the fibrous capsule and do not cover the articular surfaces. It is an extensive and complex structure that contributes to a number of other structures.

- anterosuperiorly: the suprapatellar bursa (Netter 480).

- laterally: a subpopliteal recess (between the popliteus muscle and the joint).

There are numerous bursae around the knee (more than 15). Please note the following:

- prepatellar: between the skin and the patella

- suprapatellar: between the distal femur and quadriceps tendon

- superficial infrapatellar (or cutaneous): between the lower portion of the tibial tuberosity and the skin

- deep infrapatellar: between the tibia and the ligamentum patella.

Click to see the images below:

Sagittal view of Bursae

Resected view of the Knee

Articular Surfaces -Fibrous Capsule - Ligaments of the Knee - The Menisci - Nerve and Blood Supply -Movements - Special Features - Knee Index

Last modified:6:01 PM on 4/20/96

- anterosuperiorly:	the suprapatellar bursa (Netter 480).
- laterally:	a subpopliteal recess (between the popliteus muscle and the joint).

- prepatellar:	between the skin and the patella
- suprapatellar:	between the distal femur and quadriceps tendon
- superficial infrapatellar (or cutaneous):	between the lower portion of the tibial tuberosity and the skin
- deep infrapatellar:	between the tibia and the ligamentum patella.