Click here for an explanation of these scores
Answer Rating key
|
search
|
|
strong
|
|
appraisal
|
|
weak
|
|
confidence
|
|
moderate
|
Question answered:13/05/08
We could find no trials of the above interventions. However, a number of eTextbooks and review-type publications have reported on the topic.
An article in eMedicine [1] reports the following treatments (after initial treatment):
“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”
Mentor reports [2]:
“Medical treatment
- Aspiration of the prepatellar bursa and injection of a corticosteroid: infection must be excluded prior to this. Complications should be discussed with the patient including infection, subcutaneous atrophy, bleeding and patellar tendon rupture. Hydrocortisone may be used.
- NSAIDs, e.g. ibuprofen: these can be used for mild to moderate pain and to reduce inflammation”
Finally, the American Family Physician reports:
“Aspiration of an inflamed bursa can be performed for relief of discomfort associated with a bursitis. If the symptoms of prepatellar bursitis are recurrent, corticosteroid injection may be performed.”
References
1) http://www.emedicine.com/pmr/topic118.htm
2) http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/40026109
3) http://www.aafp.org/afp/20030515/2147.html
DISCLAIMER: TRIPanswers is a collection of clinical questions and answers. Each provider will have their own methodology in answering questions and these are likely not to be as rigorous as systematic review. If you have any doubt as to the implications of this contact the Q&A Service Provider for further information. This document is presented for information purposes only. This document cannot and should not be used as a basis of diagnosis or choice of treatment, and is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. TRIPanswers and TRIP Database Ltd are not responsible or liable for, directly or indirectly, ANY form of damage whatsoever resulting from the use/misuse of information contained in or implied by this document. Also, ensure you have read the terms and conditions for using the site.