[Soft-tissue defects following olecranon bursitis. Treatment options for closure]

Olecranon bursitis has a high prevalence and is commonly treated conservatively. However, in case of bacterial infection and open injuries with chronic courses, surgery is indicated. Despite high surgical standards, soft-tissue defects cannot always be avoided in primary surgery for infectious olecranon bursitis. For complicated courses with persisting defects, standardized closing procedures are available. For maintaining adequate elbow function and avoiding long disease progression, definite closure of the defect should be achieved. Various treatment options exist: VAC therapy and local, island, distant, and free flaps. Between 1996 and 2007, 12 Patients with complicated olecranon bursitis were treated in our institution. Of them, 11 received surgery. In complicated courses of olecranon bursitis with soft-tissue defects, fistulas, or recurrent wound healing disorders, there are several procedures for plastic covering of the elbow.