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BURSECTOMY AT THE ANKLE

Method
Arthroscopic or open removal of a bursa
Duration
30 to 60 minutes
Recovery time
2 to 6 weeks

A bursectomy at the ankle is a surgical procedure for removing inflamed or enlarged bursae in the region of the ankle. These can arise from chronic irritation, from overuse or from inflammatory conditions and can lead to pain, swelling and restricted movement.

Common indications are Haglund exostosis (a posterior heel spur), chronic inflammation of the Achilles tendon or bursitis around the Achilles tendon. The operation can be carried out arthroscopically or open, depending on the site and on how much tissue is involved.

What is a bursectomy at the ankle?

How the operation proceeds

  • Local or regional anaesthetic
  • Incision over the affected bursa
  • Exposure and complete removal of the inflamed bursa
  • Treatment of accompanying problems at the same time (e.g. bone spurs)
  • Closure of the wound and a sterile dressing
  • Application of a compression dressing

Rehabilitation after a bursectomy at the ankle

Rehabilitation after a bursectomy at the ankle aims to support wound healing and restore movement.

Phase I (0-7 days): wound healing and protection
  • Elevation to reduce swelling
  • Compression dressing for 3-5 days
  • Wound check and removal of sutures after 10-14 days
  • Avoiding weight-bearing
Phase II (1-3 weeks): mobilisation
  • Beginning mobilisation exercises
  • Increasing weight-bearing step by step
  • Physiotherapy to improve movement
  • Cooling where there is swelling
Phase III (from week 3): full weight-bearing
  • Full weight-bearing possible
  • Taking up everyday activities again
  • Sporting activities depending on how healing progresses
  • Checks on wound healing