Is your kneecap swollen, tender, and painful to touch?
Prepatellar bursitis — also known as kneecap bursitis — can make kneeling, walking, and even simple daily tasks uncomfortable. When swelling does not improve with rest, this condition may require medical care.
Cristobal Beiro, MD, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine. Fellowship-trained and highly experienced in treating complex knee conditions, he provides comprehensive care in Avenel, NJ.
What Is Prepatellar Bursitis?
A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues. The prepatellar bursa sits in front of the kneecap. When it becomes irritated or inflamed, fluid builds up, leading to visible swelling.
Prepatellar bursitis is often called “housemaid’s knee” because it can result from frequent kneeling. It may also develop after a direct blow to the knee or from infection.
Common Causes
Prepatellar bursitis may occur due to:
- Repeated kneeling
- Direct trauma to the kneecap
- Sports injuries
- An infection entering through a cut or scrape
Determining whether the bursitis is infectious or non-infectious is important for proper treatment.
Symptoms of Kneecap Bursitis
You may notice:
- Swelling over the kneecap
- Warmth or redness
- Tenderness to touch
- Pain when bending or kneeling
If fever or spreading redness is present, immediate evaluation is necessary to rule out infection.
Treatment Options for Prepatellar Bursitis
Many cases improve with non-operative care, including:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice and compression
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Aspiration to remove excess fluid
If infection is present, antibiotics may be required. In chronic or recurrent cases, surgical removal of the inflamed bursa may be considered.
Dr. Beiro evaluates each case carefully to determine the most appropriate treatment based on severity and underlying cause.
Surgery for Chronic Prepatellar Bursitis
When conservative treatments fail to resolve symptoms or when bursitis becomes chronic and recurrent, surgical intervention may be recommended. The procedure, called a bursectomy, involves removing the inflamed bursa entirely. This is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or regional anesthesia.
Surgical outcomes are generally favorable, with most patients experiencing significant relief and reduced risk of recurrence when combined with activity modification.
Recovery and Prevention
Most patients recover with conservative treatment. Avoid prolonged kneeling and use protective knee pads to help prevent recurrence.
When surgery is necessary, rehabilitation focuses on restoring motion and reducing stiffness.
Why Choose Cristobal Beiro, MD, for Prepatellar Bursitis Treatment in Avenel, NJ?
Dr. Cris Beiro completed his orthopaedic training at Rutgers University – New Jersey School of Medicine and his sports medicine fellowship at Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore. He has experience treating athletes at professional and collegiate levels.
Board-certified and highly experienced in complex knee conditions, Dr. Beiro is co-founder of Garden State Bone and Joint and serves as an attending physician at several area hospitals. His patient-centered approach emphasizes accurate diagnosis and long-term joint health.
Relieve Swelling and Protect Your Knee
Prepatellar bursitis can interfere with work, sports, and everyday movement. With timely evaluation and proper treatment, you can reduce swelling and restore comfort.
If you’re experiencing swelling of the kneecap in Avenel, NJ, contact Cristobal Beiro, MD, at (732) 283-2663 to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
