Introduction: The technique of endoscopic bursectomy is described. Results are evaluated and compared to “open” surgery.

Patients and methods: Data were registered from case records of all relevant patients operated on in the period 1/1/1994–30/6/97. Patients were interviewed by telephone at follow up.

Results: Ten female and 60 male patients had been operated on, 19 patients endoscopically (EN), 19 with excision and primary suture (EPS), and 32 with incision (IN). In the EN group 14/19 of the bursites were infected, in the EPS and IN groups figures were 5/19 and 26/32 respectively. Operation time was shorter and hospitalization time longer in the IN group. Healing was fastest in the EN group, no patients were readmitted or reoperated. One patient in the EPS and 6 in the IN group were readmitted. Twenty two patients in the IN group were reoperated between one and seven times.

Conclusion: Endoscopic resection is safe and effective.