Prepatellar Bursitis Follow-up

Updated: Jan 09, 2023
  • Author: Divakara Kedlaya, MBBS; Chief Editor: Dean H Hommer, MD  more...
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Follow-up

Further Outpatient Care

Conservative care usually is effective for treatment of prepatellar bursitis. Common treatment recommendations may include the following:

  • Rest

  • Ice until swelling subsides, then may use ice or heat

  • Aspiration when necessary

  • Injection (if no evidence of infection)

  • Elevation of the affected leg when possible

  • Anti-inflammatory medications

  • Antibiotics if indicated because of infection

  • Assistive device for ambulation if necessary

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Further Inpatient Care

Inpatient care may be necessary in septic prepatellar bursitis, and the patient may require administration of IV antibiotics.

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Deterrence

See the list below:

  • Avoidance of kneeling

  • Occupational modifications (use of knee pads)

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Prognosis

Prognosis is excellent with definitive treatment.

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Patient Education

Stress to the patient the importance of avoiding prolonged or repetitive kneeling, along with making the appropriate occupational modifications.

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