Endoscopic Olecranon Bursectomy in the Treatment of Recalcitrant Olecranon Bursitis: Patient Selection and Operative Technique

Abstract

Olecranon bursitis is the most common form of bursitis. While it can commonly be treated using noninvasive measures, a surgical approach is indicated for cases of recalcitrant olecranon bursitis, which fail such treatment options. Traditionally, recalcitrant olecranon bursitis has been treated with an open bursectomy. Recently, arthroscopy has been proposed as an alternative method. Contraindications for this approach are cases where the bursa is massively enlarged and contains copious amounts of gouty tophi. While a unanimous consensus regarding which surgical approach is optimal has yet to be made, the endoscopic approach could potentially reduce issues inherent to open bursectomies such as improper wound healing and recurrence. This would reduce patient discomfort and allow them to return to activity sooner. We present a technique for treating recalcitrant olecranon bursitis using endoscopic resection.