Superficial synovial membrane located overlying the proximal ulna/olecranon allows for easy irritation and inflammation
Swelling does not involve the joint
Most common bursitis (approx. 4x more common than prepatellar)
Male>>Female
Prone to trauma, inflammation or infection
-RA, gout, overlying break in skin
Chronic inflammation results from excessive leaning on the elbow such as with certain occupations (plumber, military recruit)
Inflammation may be septic or aseptic
Usual cause is traumatic
Approximately 20% of acute cases may have a septic origin
Classically appears as a “goose egg” area on posterior elbow
Well-demarcated and fluctuant
Small amount of swelling and/or those with minimal symptoms should be left alone and treated with activity modification, NSAIDS, ice. Suggest an elbow pad for protection.
If this does not resolve symptoms after approximately 4 weeks, consider referral for aspiration and steroid injection
If aspiration is ED performed for evaluation of possible septic bursitis, recommend a compressive elbow sleeve to help prevent reaccumulating
If a recurrent issue for patient and aspirated, consider a posterior elbow splint for approx. 10 days and refer to orthopedics.
