A bursitis impingement surgery involves removal of the inflamed olecranon bursa and shaving of the bone spur causing the impingement.
Overview of procedure
This is a minimally invasive outpatient arthroscopic procedure. Once the patient is under general anesthesia the physician will enter a small fibro optic scope and other small instruments through several small incisions to remove the bursa pad and shave down the bone.
Pre-treatment considerations
- This surgery is rare as conservative measures usually work to treat olecranon bursitis.
- This treatment is indicated for patients that have had an inflamed bursa for over 3 months in which non-surgical treatment has not worked.
Post-treatment considerations and recovery
- Splint at 90 degrees and sling for up to 2 weeks
- Physical therapy is then begun to restore range of motion of the elbow
- Full return to activity in 6-8 weeks
- May need to wear a pad over the elbow for a few months if there is risk of injury or a hit to the elbow.
- The bursa will grow back as a normal non-inflamed bursa over the next several months.
Pros and benefits
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Reduction of pain and swelling
- Full range of motion of the joint should be restored
Cons, risks, and possible side effects
- Sometimes the bursitis comes back
- With rheumatoid arthritis there is a 60% reoccurrence
- Infection at incision site and problems with wound healing
