Olecranon Bursitis
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Costs
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What is Olecranon Bursitis?
At the back of the elbow, between the skin and the bone, there is a thin sac (bursa). Under normal conditions, this bursa contains only a very small amount of fluid. When the bursa fills with excess fluid, it becomes inflamed and, as a result, the back of the elbow becomes swollen. Olecranon bursitis is one of the most common causes of swelling (edema) and elbow pain.
What are the causes of Olecranon Bursitis?
Olecranon bursitis may be caused by the following:
Frequent pressure on the back of the elbow against a hard surface, such as in students and office workers.
Injury – a blow to the area
Certain systemic conditions such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis
An infection following an abrasion or injury
Injury during sports, and generally sports that place pressure on the elbow such as basketball or tennis
As a result of pre-existing osteoarthritis
Main Symptoms
Patients may experience the following symptoms:
Visible swelling and pain at the back of the elbow
Redness and increased temperature in the area
Night pain that wakes the patient, especially if they sleep on the affected elbow.
Stiffness (difficulty moving) of the elbow
How is the diagnosis made?
A patient with swelling of the elbow requires assessment by a specialized Orthopaedic Surgeon. Mr Leonidou will take a detailed medical history and examine you. The doctor will perform an ultrasound examination of the elbow, and an X-ray will also be required to rule out the presence of calcifications or osteoarthriti
Conservative Treatment
In most cases, treatment is conservative and includes the following:
Rest and activity modification
Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Ice therapy
Temporary bandaging of the elbow
In some persistent cases, aspiration of the fluid, cortisone injection and application of a compression bandage are performed. If the fluid is purulent, further treatment with antibiotics may be required.
Indications for surgical treatment of olecranon bursitis
Failure of conservative treatment
Presence of extensive infection
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatment fails, surgical treatment offers a definitive solution with excellent results. Through a small incision, the bursa is removed and the area is thoroughly cleaned. If pre-existing osteoarthritis is also present, it is cleaned / removed. The specialized anesthesiologist will administer regional anesthesia and the patient will remain awake during the procedure. The patient is discharged from the hospital a few hours after surgery.
Surgical Success
Surgical treatment of olecranon bursitis is a safe procedure with minimal bleeding, exceptionally low complication rates and excellent functional outcomes. The patient is discharged from the hospital a few hours after the procedure and begins moving the elbow immediately.
What is the cost of the surgery? How much does it cost?
The cost is quite affordable. For more information, please contact us.
If you have olecranon bursitis, consult the specialized orthopaedic surgeon Mr Andreas Leonidou. The doctor has 14 years of continuous experience abroad and specializes in elbow conditions.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialized care and targeted treatment in just one visit.