Obturator internus bursa

Last revised by Yuranga Weerakkody on 4 Oct 2023

The obturator internus bursa is a narrow, elongated fluid pocket situated between the obturator internus tendon and the posterior surface of the ischium 1 which is usually only visible when distended with fluid. Its shape has been likened to that of a “boomerang” 1, particularly when viewed in the transverse plane.

Related pathology 

The obturator internus bursa is normally collapsed and not visible.When distended secondary to infection or inflammation 1 it may be visible. Reports suggest that most patients with obturator internus muscle abscesses or bursitis respond well to antibiotics without surgical drainage 2,3. Understanding of the imaging features of obturator internus bursitis can therefore avoid unnecessary surgery.

See also

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