Prepatellar Morel-Lavallée Effusion Mimicking a Bursitis.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Traumatology

Background:

• Morel-Lavallée lesions involve hemolymphatic fluid accumulation after subcutaneous tissue disruption.
• These lesions typically occur in specific anatomical locations, with prepatellar presentation being uncommon.

Observation:

• A 63-year-old woman presented with a prepatellar lesion initially diagnosed as bursitis.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was pivotal in correcting the diagnosis to a Morel-Lavallée lesion.
• The lesion's anatomical extent and characteristics were clearly delineated by MRI.

Findings:

• MRI confirmed the prepatellar Morel-Lavallée lesion, differentiating it from prepatellar bursitis and neoplastic conditions.
• Conservative management with compression was effective for this specific case.
• Surgical intervention is typically reserved for chronic or complicated Morel-Lavallée lesions.

Implications:

• This case highlights the diagnostic utility of MRI for prepatellar Morel-Lavallée effusion (PMLE).
• Accurate imaging is essential for appropriate management strategies in patients with this rare pathology.
• Early and correct diagnosis via MRI can lead to timely and effective treatment, potentially avoiding unnecessary interventions.