Ultrasonographic findings in patients with olecranon bursitis.
BACKGROUND
Musculoskeletal ultrasonography (U.S.) is an important imaging technique in the diagnosis of olecranon bursitis, especially for early manifestation. It allows sensitive detection of small fluid collections as well as for differentiation between soft tissue and bone lesions. U.S. examination allows detection of effusions, synovial proliferation, calcifications, loose bodies, rheumatoid nodules, gout tophi and septic processes.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis and management of patients with olecranon bursitis.


METHODS
Ultrasound was used in 34 patients with swelling above the olecranon. The opposite asymptomatic side served as a control group.


RESULTS
20 patients demonstrated increased fluid collection in the olecranon bursa. 5 had synovial proliferation, 2 cases showed loose body, 5 patients revealed markedly increased blood flow consistent with inflammation, 2 patients had triceps tendonitis with calcifications.


CONCLUSIONS
Sonography is an extremely effective tool for the diagnosis of soft tissue lesions in the olecranon area.
Blankstein
A
A
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel. blankali@zahav.net.il
Ganel
A
A
Givon
U
U
Mirovski
Y
Y
Chechick
A
A
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002061:Bursa, Synovial / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002062:Bursitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D007249:Inflammation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain; D014463:Ultrasonography