Why might one need bursitis surgery?

There are several reasons why a person might need surgery to treat bursitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between tendons, bones, and muscles near joints.

1. Persistent Pain and Inflammation: If conservative treatments such as rest, ice application, pain relievers, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications fail to alleviate severe and persistent pain and inflammation in the affected bursa, surgery may be recommended. Chronic pain can significantly impact daily activities, mobility, and quality of life.

2. Limited Range of Motion: Bursitis can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion in the affected joint, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks or engage in physical activities. Surgery can aim to restore flexibility and improve joint function by addressing the underlying cause of the bursitis.

3. Infection: In cases where bursitis is caused by bacterial infection, surgery may be necessary to drain the infected bursa, remove any infected tissue, and administer appropriate antibiotics. Failure to treat an infected bursa promptly can lead to severe complications, including the spread of infection to the bone (osteomyelitis) or bloodstream (sepsis).

4. Bone Spurs or Calcifications: If bursitis is associated with bone spurs or calcifications (calcium deposits) that impinge on the bursa, causing pain and discomfort, surgical removal of the bone spurs or calcifications may be needed to relieve the pressure on the bursa and reduce pain.

5. Failed Conservative Treatments: When bursitis does not respond adequately to conservative treatments over several weeks or months, surgery may be considered as the next step to alleviate ongoing symptoms and improve function.

6. Chronic Bursitis: In individuals with chronic, recurrent bursitis that significantly affects their quality of life and has not responded to other treatment options, surgery may be recommended to permanently address the underlying issue and prevent future recurrences.

It is important to note that surgery for bursitis is generally considered when other non-surgical measures have failed to provide sufficient relief and when the condition significantly impacts daily activities and function. Consultation with a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic surgeon, is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for each individual case of bursitis.