Distended iliopsoas bursa: case reports and anatomical dissection

Abstract

Distension of the iliopsoas bursa is usually seen in association with underlying hip joint disease. The computed tomography (CT) appearance is characteristic and allows a diagnosis to be readily made. Computed tomography will also facilitate needle placement for aspiration of bursa contents and the injection of water-soluble contrast media for CT bursography. Three cases of iliopsoas bursa enlargement of varying underlying aetiology are presented. The dissection of seven cadavers demonstrated the anatomy of the normal bursa and highlighted its important role in the normal functioning of the iliopsoas muscle.