Trochanteric Bursectomy
Surgical treatment for chronic outer-hip bursitis
If you’ve been experiencing ongoing pain on the outer part of your hip that hasn’t improved with physiotherapy, medications, or injections, your orthopaedic surgeon may discuss the option of trochanteric bursectomy. This procedure involves removing an inflamed bursa, a fluid-filled sac that normally helps reduce friction in the hip region, when it becomes a source of chronic pain or dysfunction.
Trochanteric bursectomy is most commonly performed to help relieve symptoms of greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS), particularly when the condition is no longer responding to non-surgical treatment. In some cases, the procedure may also include repair of nearby tendons or removal of calcium deposits, depending on the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Topics covered on this page:
What is trochanteric bursitis and why surgery may be needed
Trochanteric bursitis is a common cause of lateral hip pain. It occurs when the bursa located over the greater trochanter (the bony prominence on the outside of the upper thigh bone) becomes inflamed. This may happen due to overuse, injury, altered biomechanics, tight iliotibial band (ITB), or degeneration of the nearby gluteal tendons.
Symptoms may include:
- A dull or burning ache over the outer hip
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Discomfort during walking, climbing stairs, or prolonged standing
- Tenderness to touch on the outer hip
Most people with trochanteric bursitis respond well to non-surgical treatment, including physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding muscles, soft tissue release, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections.
Surgery, such as a trochanteric bursectomy, is generally only considered when these conservative options no longer provide relief.
When trochanteric bursectomy might be considered
Surgical intervention may be considered if:
- You have ongoing outer hip pain that persists despite a comprehensive course of non-operative treatment.
- Imaging shows gluteus medius or minimus tendon tears, thickened ITB, or chronic bursa inflammation.
- The pain is interfering with your sleep, mobility, or quality of life.
- You have already trialled injections and physiotherapy with limited or short-lived benefit.
Your surgeon will review your medical history, perform a clinical assessment, and may recommend imaging (such as MRI or ultrasound) to better understand the source of your symptoms.
What happens during the surgical procedure
Trochanteric bursectomy is typically performed under a general anaesthetic or regional anaesthetic with sedation. It may be done using either open or endoscopic (keyhole) techniques, depending on your individual anatomy and the nature of your condition.
The procedure usually involves:
- Removal of the inflamed bursa – The bursa over the greater trochanter is carefully excised to reduce friction and eliminate the inflamed tissue causing your pain.
- Addressing surrounding structures – If needed, your surgeon may also:
- Perform a gluteus medius/minimus tendon repair if tearing is present.
- Conduct a partial release of the iliotibial band (ITB) to relieve pressure on the hip.
- Remove any calcification or scar tissue contributing to the irritation.
The procedure may take around 60 to 90 minutes, depending on complexity. In most cases, it can be done as day surgery, but some patients may stay overnight if additional repairs are performed.
Recovery and rehabilitation following surgery
Recovery following a trochanteric bursectomy can vary depending on whether any tendon repair or ITB release was performed.
Immediately after surgery:
- You’ll be monitored in recovery and given pain relief.
- You may be provided with crutches for support initially.
- Most patients are able to go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
Over the following weeks:
- You may experience bruising or swelling over the outer hip.
- Gradual return to walking is encouraged, avoiding excessive stairs or inclines in the early phase.
- A physiotherapy program will be tailored to your needs and may include stretching, strengthening, and gait retraining.
Time frames to expect:
- Return to desk-based work: ~1–2 weeks
- Return to light exercise: ~4–6 weeks
- Return to full activity: ~3 months, depending on the procedure and progress
Your surgeon and physiotherapy team will guide your recovery, adjusting activities based on your symptoms and healing.
Risks, outcomes, and what to expect
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Nerve irritation or numbness near the incision site
- Ongoing or recurrent pain
- Wound healing issues
While trochanteric bursectomy may not guarantee complete resolution of symptoms, many patients report significant improvements in pain levels and quality of life, particularly when surgery is combined with post-operative rehabilitation.
Your surgeon will discuss the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes with you during the decision-making process.
Whether this procedure may be right for you
Not everyone with trochanteric bursitis requires surgery. This procedure may be considered appropriate for patients who:
- Have chronic lateral hip pain not responding to conservative measures
- Have imaging evidence of associated tendon pathology
- Are otherwise healthy enough for surgery
- Are committed to rehabilitation following the operation
Your individual circumstances, goals, and medical history will all be considered during your consultation. Your surgeon will help you weigh the pros and cons and provide personalised advice to support your decision.