Evaluation of the olecranon bursa: an anatomical structure in the normal horse.

Abstract This study aimed to determine whether a true synovial structure exists over the olecranon tuberosity, which could be attributed to a non-inflamed olecranon bursa. Contrast radiography, gross anatomical dissection and histopathology were used to evaluate the olecranon bursa in horses with no previous elbow pathology. The radiographic study revealed that the contrast was positioned subcutaneously, superficial to the long head of the triceps and its insertion on the olecranon tuberosity and did not extend cranial to the triceps tendon. The contrast region was consistent in shape, size and location. Gross anatomical dissection of the area revealed a potential bursal space overlying the tendons of the lateral and medial heads of the triceps brachii and the tensor fascia antebrachii in the normal horse. Histopathology confirmed a bursal lining, which was of mesenchymal origin and suggestive of a single cell membrane, lined by fibroblast-like synoviocytes.