About Olecranon Bursitis
Key Highlights
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Effectively reduces pain and swelling at the elbow tip.Restores normal range of motion and function to the elbow joint.Minimally invasive options like aspiration offer quick relief with minimal downtime.Surgical bursectomy provides a definitive solution for chronic or recurrent cases.Performed by orthopedic specialists with precise knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy.
Who is this surgery for?
- Persistent swelling and pain at the back of the elbow that does not improve with rest and medication.
- Recurrent episodes of bursitis affecting daily activities or work.
- Suspected or confirmed septic (infected) bursitis requiring drainage and antibiotics.
- Chronic bursitis causing stiffness, limited mobility, or cosmetic concern.
- Failure of conservative treatments like ice, NSAIDs, and activity modification.
How to prepare
- Consultation with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss symptoms, medical history, and treatment options.
- Disclosure of all current medications, especially blood thinners, which may need to be paused.
- Imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to assess the bursa and rule out other conditions.
- For suspected infection, fluid may be aspirated and sent for lab analysis.
- Fasting may be required if surgery with anesthesia is planned.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the injection or surgical site.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Recurrence of the bursitis.
- Nerve damage leading to numbness or tingling.
- Allergic reaction to medications or anesthesia.
- Scarring or skin discoloration.
- Stiffness or prolonged pain in the elbow.
Recovery & hospital stay
- After aspiration or injection, the arm should be rested and a compression bandage applied for 1-2 days.
- Ice packs can be used to manage swelling and discomfort.
- Pain medications and a course of antibiotics (if infected) will be prescribed as needed.
- Post-surgery, the elbow may be immobilized in a splint for a short period, followed by gentle range-of-motion exercises.
- Avoid direct pressure on the elbow (e.g., leaning on it) for several weeks to allow healing.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and progress physical therapy if required.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (Outpatient for aspiration/injection; possible overnight for surgery)
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Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks for non-surgical procedures; 3-6 weeks for surgical bursectomy
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering olecranon bursitis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for olecranon bursitis in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform olecranon bursitis. MediFyr helps you compare orthopedists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for olecranon bursitis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 5 Thousand – 55 Thousand | 0-1 days (Outpatient for aspiration/injection; possible overnight for surgery) | ~ 1-2 weeks for non-surgical procedures; 3-6 weeks for surgical bursectomy | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 17.5 Thousand – 193 Thousand | 0-1 days (Outpatient for aspiration/injection; possible overnight for surgery) | ~ 1-2 weeks for non-surgical procedures; 3-6 weeks for surgical bursectomy | Know More |
Top hospitals for Olecranon Bursitis in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated orthopedics teams and experience managing patients undergoing olecranon bursitis.
Ayaan Joshi, 45, is a data...
Ayaan Joshi, 45, is a data analyst and hobbyist gardener with a history of gout. He developed a tender, swollen bursa on his left elbow that flared up severely after a weekend of heavy yard work. The swelling was accompanied by significant pain and limited his ability to type at work. His orthopedist, aware of his gout history, suspected crystalline (gouty) olecranon bursitis. After a confirming aspiration showed uric acid crystals, the doctor recommended therapeutic aspiration to relieve pressure and pain, along with a corticosteroid injection into the bursa and a adjustment of his gout medication. The immediate relief from the aspiration was profound, like 'letting air out of a overinflated tire.' Post-procedure, combined with better gout management, the bursitis resolved fully. Ayaan felt validated that his systemic condition was addressed, not just the local symptom. His journey shifted from annoyance and work disruption to empowerment, taking control of his gout to prevent future flare-ups in his elbow or elsewhere.
Orthopedists for Olecranon Bursitis
Explore experienced orthopedists who regularly perform olecranon bursitis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 48 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 25 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 15 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 11 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 14 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 9 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 15 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 20 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 19 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 18 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 30 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 28 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 26 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 11 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore