ICD-10-CM Billable Code

M71.19

Other infective bursitis, multiple sites

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Infective bursitis refers to inflammation and infection of the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles around joints. The specific ICD-10 code M71.19 designates cases where this infection occurs at multiple sites in the body. While bursitis often affects single locations such as the shoulder or elbow, multiple-site infective bursitis indicates a broader spread of infection, requiring careful evaluation and management.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Bacterial infections, often caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus Spread from neighboring infected tissues or skin wounds Repeated trauma or overuse leading to bursae becoming vulnerable to infection Underlying health conditions such as diabetes or immune deficiencies Invasive medical procedures or injections near bursae Infections that originate elsewhere in the body and spread through the bloodstream (hematogenous spread)

Key Symptoms: Localized swelling at affected bursae sites Pain or tenderness in the joint areas Redness and warmth over the affected regions Limited movement or stiffness in nearby joints Fever and chills in cases of systemic infection General discomfort or feeling unwell

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. Physicians may perform the following:

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies aim to eradicate infection, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms. Common approaches include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is M71.19 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M71.19 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report M71.19?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Other infective bursitis, multiple sites and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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