Trochanteric Bursectomy

What is a trochanteric bursectomy?

Trochanteric bursitis is marked by inflammation of the bursa located at the outside of the hip joint, known as the greater trochanter. Trochanteric bursitis  typically results from overuse of the hip joint, a fall or blunt trauma to the hip, previous surgery or incorrect posture. An arthroscopic bursectomy, known as a trochanteric bursectomy when the greater trochanter is involved, is performed by Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu, Manhattan, New York City and surrounding New York boroughs hip surgeon, for patients who have chronic bursitis of the greater trochanter that has not been alleviated by non-operative measures.

What is the greater trochanteric bursa?

A bursa is located where friction occurs between bones, muscles and tendons in the human body. The bursa contains fluid that lubricates the area where friction occurs to help reduce painful rubbing and inflammation. The greater trochanteric bursa is associated with the iliotibial (IT) band, the long tendon running down the side of the thigh and attaching to the knee’s outside edge. If the tendon is pulled too tightly during walking, running or athletic activities, it will press and rub against the bursa, leading to bursitis.

How is a trochanteric bursectomy surgery performed?

A bursectomy of the hip is commonly performed by Dr. Nwachukwu if non-operative measures, such as rest, ice and physical therapy, do not alleviate trochanteric bursitis. An arthroscopic bursectomy is a minimally invasive technique involving an arthroscope and small instruments to remove or repair the damaged tissue.

A trochanteric bursectomy is a fairly simple hip treatment. Dr. Nwachukwu will create a small incision on the side of the thigh where he will then utilize a small, motorized shaver to debride all of the inflamed bursal tissue. A bursectomy of the hip may also be performed with a labral refixation, iliotibial band release and/or another hip treatment. The advantages of using this less invasive, arthroscopic technique for patients in New York are quicker healing times, less pain and less chance for infection.

What are the risks of arthroscopic hip surgery?

During a traditional hip arthroscopy, the hip joint needs to be open in order for the instruments to safely pass into the joint. The traditional way to open the joint is to place a large padded post in the patient’s perineal area to provide counter-traction while the leg is pulled taught. Dr. Nwachukwu is one of approximately 20% of hip surgeons in the USA  who have switched to postless hip arthroscopy.  This new technology for accessing the joint eliminates the perineal post completely by using a special surgical table to create the traction required for the surgery resulting in quicker recovery without complications such as numbness in the genital area and possible nerve damage.

Learn more about postless hip arthroscopy.

What happens after a trochanteric bursectomy?

Dr. Nwachukwu will prescribe a thorough physical therapy and rehabilitation program following an arthroscopic bursectomy. It is very important a patient begins moving the hip joint as soon as possible under the guidance of a physical therapist. Physical therapy involves protecting tissues as they heal, while gradually gaining strength and range of motion. Many patients can expect alleviated hip pain and a full recovery by approximately 12 weeks following a trochanteric bursectomy.

For more information about a trochanteric bursectomy for hip pain and bursitis, please contact the office of Benedict Nwachukwu, MD, orthopedic hip surgeon, serving Manhattan, New York City and surrounding New York boroughs.