Olecranon Bursitis

Olecranon bursitis is an accumulation of excess fluid within the normally non-palpable olecranon bursa at the elbow. Patients will notice boggy, non-painful swelling at the point of the elbow, which typically does not significantly limit elbow range of motion. It can be caused by trauma, prolonged pressure, systemic conditions (RA, CREST syndrome), and crystal deposition. The inflamed bursa may also be due to infection, most commonly with S. aureus. Clinical distinction between septic and aseptic olecranon bursitis may be difficult, and aspiration is often necessary. Aseptic olecranon bursitis may be treated with “benign neglect,” NSAIDs, steroid injection, and compressive dressings, although no standard treatment plan exists. Septic olecranon bursitis must be treated with irrigation, debridement, and bursectomy in conjunction with IV antibiotics. Open debridement is the gold standard, but arthroscopic techniques have been described with good results. Chronic bursitis, persistent drainage, and skin atrophy from steroid injection are all possible long-term complications from olecranon bursitis.