Olecranon Bursitis

What is Olecranon Bursitis?

A bursa is a fluid filled sac which helps cushion a bony prominence, such as the point of the elbow (olecranon). For various reasons, including infection, repetitive pressure, and gout, the bursa can become inflamed and swell up.

How is it treated non-operatively?

If there is no large infected collection, then olecranon bursitis can be managed non-operatively with compression bandaging and needle drainage.

How is it treated operatively?

If the bursitis is particularly painful or infected, then Dr Yu will recommend an operation to thoroughly drain the fluid and remove the bursa. This is performed through a small cut (incision) at the tip of the elbow. After the operation, the incision is dressed with special bandages which allow the fluid to continue draining from the bursa, and you will require regular dressing changes while the surgical wound heals.

My goals as a surgeon are to relieve your pain, restore your function, and return you back to doing what you love.

– Dr Raymond Yu

  • Adelaide Orthopaedic Surgeon
  • Adelaide Shoulder Surgeon

About
Dr Raymond Yu

Dr Raymond Yu is an Adelaide Orthopaedic Surgeon with post-Fellowship expertise in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery.
He specialises in orthopaedic surgery of the Shoulder and Upper Limb with a focus on modern keyhole and minimally-invasive techniques.
Dr Yu has a special passion for:

  • Rotator cuff repair surgery
  • Shoulder replacement surgery
  • Shoulder stabilisation surgery

Dr Yu practices at