Hygroma

• Inflammation of the bursa

• Many factors causes bursitis : trauma ( repetitive microtrauma), prolonged pressure, infection ( insect bite, scrape, puncture wound, secondary to inflammatory diseases ( rheumatoid arthritis, gout)

• Symptoms are swelling, pain, redness and warm to the touch

• X rays are necessary to eliminate foreign body or a bone spur.

Treatment:

• Fluid testing: aspiration to diagnose whether the bursitis is caused by infection or gout. 

  If the bursitis is not from an infection, there are several management options.

  ·        Elbow pads. An elbow pad may be used to cushion your elbow.

  ·        Activity changes. Avoid activities that cause direct pressure to your swollen elbow.

  ·        Ice++

  ·        Splinting in extension for few days

  ·        Medications:  anti-inflammatories

• Steroid injection is considered a 2nd line treatment

• In case of infected bursa, Surgical excision (open or arthroscopy)