Tibial collateral ligament bursitis.

In 91 patients evaluated between 1982 and 1985, tibial collateral ligament bursitis was diagnosed. This entity has not been described since the work of Brantigan and Voshell in 1943. The diagnosis was based on the findings of tenderness over the tibial collateral ligament at the joint line, without a history of mechanical symptoms. With a nonsurgical program, 62% of the patients improved and subsequently required no further treatment. Fifteen percent did not improve; of this group, one-third had a negative arthrogram or arthroscopy. Another 23% did not improve and ultimately underwent an arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy. Tibial collateral ligament bursitis is an entity that should be considered in any patient with medial joint pain in the knee. Treatment is simple, effective, and offers low morbidity.