Olecranon Bursitis Flashcards
What is olecranon bursitis
common inflammatory pathology of the olecranon bursa which is prone to inflammation due to its superficial position and is vulnerability to pressure and trauma.
what is the mechanism of injury of this condition
repetitive flexion-extension movements at the elbow, causing irritation of the bursa
what are less common causes of olecranon bursitis
gout and rheumatoid arthritis
infected, through a skin abrasion or puncture (most commonly from S. aureus), leading to a bursitis too.
What are the clinical features of this condition
Pain and swelling
Range of movement is persevered
If infected then may have systemic signs eg - fever, lethargy
Ensure to check both elbows and joints above and below
How is this condition different in presentation compared to septic arthritis of the elbow
any movement of the joint with produce large amounts of pain.
What are the differential diagnosis
inflammatory arthropathies, gout, cellulitis, and septic arthritis.
what are the lab investigations to carry out
Routine bloods, including a FBC and CRP, should be taken. Any suggestion of rheumatological causes may warrant further specialised tests. Serum urate levels should be checked if the history is suggestive of gout
what are the imaging investigations to carry out
Plain film radiographs - helps to rule out other causes
How do you definitively diagnose olecranon bursitis
aspiration of the fluid, being sent for microscopy and for culture, which can assess for evidence of infection and for the presence crystals. This also can provide symptomatic relief for some patients.
How would you treat swelling without infection
Analgesia => NSAIDS
Splinting of the elbow for a short time
If large swelling => can undergo a washout in theatre
How would you treat a infected olecranon bursitis
IV abx if systemic symptoms
Surgical drainage
Bursectomy
what complications may develop due to olecranon bursitis
Rarely, septic arthritis or osteomyelitis can develop in infective cases
