Elbow bursitis, also known as olecranon bursitis, is a condition characterised by inflammation or irritation of the bursa sac located at the tip of the elbow. The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between the bone and the overlying skin and soft tissue. When the bursa becomes inflamed or irritated, it can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the elbow.

Elbow bursitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive pressure or trauma to the elbow, such as leaning on the elbow for extended periods, direct blows or falls onto the elbow, or underlying medical conditions such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis. In some cases, the cause of elbow bursitis is unknown.

Symptoms may include pain, tenderness, and swelling in the elbow, as well as limited range of motion and stiffness. In some cases, the skin over the affected area may become red, warm, or tender.

Non-surgical treatment

Treatment for elbow bursitis may include conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation.

In some cases, the fluid in the bursa may need to be drained using a needle and syringe. Physiotherapy and stretching exercises may also be recommended to improve range of motion and prevent recurrence of symptoms.

Surgical treatment

Dr Singh will perform elbow bursitis surgery on patients who have chronic elbow bursitis that does not improve with conservative treatment. The surgical procedure usually involves removing the inflamed bursa, called the olecranon bursa.

The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia and may be done as an outpatient or with a short hospital stay and can be performed using either an open or arthroscopic technique, depending on the severity of the bursitis and Dr Singhs recommendation to your specific condition.

Open Technique:

If an open technique is used, Dr Singh will make an incision on the back of the elbow over the bursa. Once the bursa is exposed, he will carefully remove it and any surrounding damaged tissue using surgical instruments. He may also remove any bone spurs or other structures that are contributing to the inflammation. After the bursa and other tissue is removed, Dr Singh will carefully close the incision with sutures or staples and cover the area with a sterile dressing.

Arthroscopic Technique:

If an arthroscopic technique is used, Dr Singh will make several small incisions on the back of the elbow and insert a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, into one of the incisions. He will then use specialised surgical instruments to remove the inflamed bursa and any damaged tissue through the other incisions. The advantage of the arthroscopic technique is that it is less invasive and may result in less postoperative pain and a faster recovery time.

Regardless of the technique used, the surgery usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes and after the procedure, patients are usually allowed to go home the same day or may need to stay in the hospital for a short observation period.

Patients will be advised to rest and keep the arm elevated for a few days after surgery to help reduce swelling and pain.

Recovery time varies from patient to patient, but most patients can return to work or normal activities within a few weeks after surgery. Physiotherapy may be recommended to help restore range of motion and strength to the elbow joint.

Although elbow bursitis surgery is generally safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and loss of range of motion in the elbow joint. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure in consultation with Dr Singh before undergoing surgery.