For a bursectomy, you may be put to sleep with general anesthesia, or the area might simply be numbed with local anesthesia, depending on the specifics of your procedure and your doctor's approach.
Anesthesia Options for Bursectomy
A bursectomy is a surgical procedure to remove an inflamed bursa, which is a small, fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles around joints. To prevent pain during this procedure, an anesthetic is always administered. The type of anesthesia used can vary:
- Local Anesthesia: With local anesthesia, only the specific area of the body where the bursectomy will be performed is numbed. You remain awake and aware during the procedure, but you will not feel any pain in the surgical site. This option might be chosen for simpler cases or specific patient needs.
- General Anesthesia: When general anesthesia is used, you are completely put to sleep for the entire duration of the surgery. This means you will not be conscious, feel any pain, or have any memory of the procedure itself. General anesthesia is typically considered for more extensive surgeries, longer procedures, or based on the patient's medical history and preference.
Regardless of whether you are numb or asleep, the medical team will proceed with the surgery by making the necessary incisions and using specialized tools. These tools are then used to carefully detach and remove the inflamed bursa, along with any accompanying scar tissue. The decision regarding which type of anesthesia is best for your bursectomy will be made by your medical team, taking into account factors like the location of the bursa, the complexity of the surgery, and your overall health.
