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Ultrasound guided olecranon bursitis aspiration and steroid injection
What is olecranon bursitis?
A bursa is a thin-walled fluid sac usually seen between tendons and bones and acts as a cushion to reduce stress in certain areas. “Bursitis” means inflammation of the bursa. The Olecranon is the bone at the tip of your elbow joint. Olecranon bursitis happens when the olecranon bursa becomes enlarged, thickened and inflamed. It can cause significant pain and swelling at the back of the elbow. Olecranon bursitis can happen secondary to direct trauma to the area or due to repetitive friction. It is also common in some inflammatory conditions like gout.
What are the symptoms of olecranon bursitis?
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Pain and swelling at the back of the elbow.
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The swelling is usually soft and compressible. It can change in size.
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If the area is red and warm to the touch, besides the above features, the bursa could be infected and require urgent medical attention to start antibiotic treatment.
How to diagnose olecranon bursitis?
Ultrasound is very useful to assess the area and confirm the diagnosis. It will assess the size of this and suitability for ultrasound guided aspiration. It will also assess for presence of any active inflammatory changes.
Ultrasound guided olecranon bursa aspiration and steroid injection
In the case of a non-infected olecranon bursa that is refractory to medical treatment, ultrasound guided aspiration and steroid injection can be considered to reduce the swelling and provide quick pain relief. Performing the procedure under ultrasound guidance will increase accuracy and reduce side effects.
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Specialist Consultant Musculoskeletal Radiologist Doctor with extensive experience in image-guided intervention
To book a consultation
Call us on 020 8050 9885 or Book online
The Musculoskeletal Ultrasound & Injections clinic
Brentford, TW8 9DR
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