Lateral Superior Knee Bursa
Yes, there is no specific bursa consistently located on the lateral superior aspect of the knee in standard anatomical descriptions, though the suprapatellar bursa extends superiorly and can have lateral extensions.
Anatomical Context
The knee contains multiple bursae that serve to reduce friction between moving structures 1, 2. However, the lateral superior region is not a typical location for a named bursa 3.
Primary Bursae Around the Knee
The most clinically relevant bursae are:
- Suprapatellar bursa - Located proximally/superiorly to the patella in the deep layer, this is the most significant superior bursa but is positioned anteriorly rather than laterally 4
- Popliteal (Baker's) cysts - Fluid accumulation in the gastrocnemius or semimembranosus bursae located posteriorly, not laterally 3, 5
- Prepatellar, infrapatellar, and pes anserine bursae - These are the other commonly affected bursae but are not in the lateral superior location 6
Imaging Considerations
When evaluating the lateral superior knee region:
- Ultrasound with high-frequency transducers (≥10 MHz) can detect small fluid collections and distinguish true bursae from other pathology 7, 8
- Bursae are only visible when distended with fluid, so normal bursae in this region may not be apparent on imaging 1
- The suprapatellar recess should be examined with the knee in 30° flexion using longitudinal and transverse scans to detect any fluid collections 8
Clinical Pitfall
Do not confuse parapatellar fluid collections or adventitious bursae with anatomically consistent structures - traumatic or inflammatory processes can create fluid-filled sacs in atypical locations including the lateral superior knee, but these represent pathologic adventitious bursae rather than normal anatomical structures 6.
If fluid is detected in the lateral superior knee region on imaging, consider it an abnormal finding requiring evaluation for underlying trauma, overuse, or inflammatory conditions 1, 6.