Subacromial Bursa Flashcards

Review the location, anatomical relations, protective function, and clinical significance of the subacromial bursa.

Card 1 of 15Question

What type of anatomical structure is the subacromial bursa?

A synovial bursa that reduces friction between structures around the shoulder joint.

In This Section

1. What type of anatomical structure is the subacromial bursa?

A synovial bursa that reduces friction between structures around the shoulder joint.

2. Where is the subacromial bursa located?

Between the coracoacromial arch superiorly and the supraspinatus tendon and shoulder joint capsule inferiorly.

3. Which bony projection forms the superior boundary of the subacromial bursa?

The acromion of the scapula.

4. Which ligament lies superior to the subacromial bursa?

The coracoacromial ligament.

5. Which rotator cuff tendon lies directly inferior to the subacromial bursa?

The supraspinatus tendon.

6. Which muscle lies superficial to the lateral extension of the subacromial bursa?

The deltoid muscle.

7. What is the relationship between the subacromial and subdeltoid bursae?

They are usually continuous, forming the subacromial-subdeltoid bursa.

8. What is the primary function of the subacromial bursa?

To reduce friction as the rotator cuff tendons move beneath the coracoacromial arch.

9. Does the subacromial bursa normally communicate with the glenohumeral joint cavity?

No, the intact rotator cuff and joint capsule normally separate them.

10. Which rotator cuff injury can create communication between the subacromial bursa and glenohumeral joint?

A full-thickness rotator cuff tear.

11. What type of tissue lines the inner surface of the subacromial bursa?

Synovial membrane.

12. What fluid normally lubricates the subacromial bursa?

A small amount of synovial fluid.

13. During which shoulder movement is the subacromial bursa particularly important for reducing friction?

Shoulder abduction, especially as the supraspinatus tendon passes beneath the acromion.

14. What is inflammation of the subacromial bursa called?

Subacromial bursitis.

15. Which clinical syndrome commonly involves irritation of the subacromial bursa and adjacent rotator cuff tendons?

Subacromial pain syndrome, historically called shoulder impingement syndrome.