M91.12
Juvenile osteochondrosis of head of femur [Legg-Calvé-Perthes], left leg
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Juvenile osteochondrosis of the head of the femur, commonly known as Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, is a condition that affects children and adolescents. It involves temporary loss of blood flow to the head of the femur, the ball-shaped part of the thigh bone that fits into the hip socket. This interruption in blood supply causes the bone tissue to die and eventually leads to deformity if not properly managed. When specifically affecting the left leg, the condition involves the left femoral head, which can impact movement, cause hip pain, and limit activity if left untreated.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Unknown precise cause, but may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Disruption of blood supply to the femoral head, possibly due to minor trauma, vascular abnormalities, or developmental issues. Factors like smoking during pregnancy or certain medical conditions may influence risk, although exact causes are not well understood.
Key Symptoms: Hip pain, often intensified with activity Limping or altered gait pattern Reduced hip range of motion, especially in internal rotation and abduction Stiffness in the hip joint Muscle wasting around the thigh or hip in advanced cases Pain may radiate to the groin, thigh, or knee, making diagnosis challenging
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Medical history assessment focusing on the onset and nature of symptoms Physical examination to evaluate hip movement and detect tenderness or deformity X-ray imaging to visualize the shape and condition of the femoral head, checking for fragmentation, flattening, or irregularities Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be used for early detection and detailed assessment of blood flow and bone health Monitoring over time to observe disease progression and response to treatment
Treatment Protocols: Rest and activity modification to reduce stress on the affected hip Use of crutches or wheelchairs to avoid weight-bearing activities Physical therapy to maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief Use of orthotic devices or braces to stabilize the hip joint and promote proper healing Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases of severe deformity or if conservative treatments fail, including procedures like joint containment surgery or osteotomy Regular follow-up with healthcare professionals to monitor progression and adjust treatment as needed
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is M91.12 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M91.12 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report M91.12?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Juvenile osteochondrosis of head of femur [Legg-Calvé-Perthes], left leg and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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