ICD-10: M71.17

The ICD-10 code M71.17 refers to "Other infective bursitis" specifically affecting the ankle and foot. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.

Clinical Presentation

Infective bursitis in the ankle and foot typically arises from an infection of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues. The condition can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, or viruses, often following trauma, overuse, or pre-existing conditions.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Localized Pain and Tenderness: Patients often report pain localized to the affected bursa, which may worsen with movement or pressure. The pain can be sharp or throbbing and may radiate to surrounding areas[1].

2. Swelling and Inflammation: The affected area usually exhibits noticeable swelling, which may be accompanied by redness and warmth. This inflammation is a direct response to the infection[1][2].

3. Limited Range of Motion: Due to pain and swelling, patients may experience a reduced range of motion in the ankle or foot, making it difficult to perform daily activities or engage in physical exercise[2].

4. Systemic Symptoms: In some cases, patients may present with systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, or malaise, indicating a more severe infection that could require immediate medical attention[1].

5. Drainage or Discharge: If the bursitis progresses, there may be drainage of pus or other fluids from the bursa, which can be a sign of a more serious infection[2].

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics may predispose individuals to develop infective bursitis in the ankle and foot:

1. Age: Older adults may be more susceptible due to age-related changes in the immune system and joint health[1].

2. Underlying Health Conditions: Patients with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or other immunocompromising conditions are at a higher risk for infections, including bursitis[2].

3. Recent Trauma or Surgery: Individuals who have recently experienced trauma to the ankle or foot, or those who have undergone surgical procedures in the area, may be more likely to develop bursitis due to potential exposure to pathogens[1].

4. Occupational or Recreational Activities: Those engaged in activities that put repetitive stress on the ankle and foot, such as runners or manual laborers, may be at increased risk for developing bursitis[2].

5. Hygiene and Skin Integrity: Poor hygiene or skin integrity, such as cuts or abrasions near the bursa, can facilitate the entry of pathogens, leading to infection[1].

Conclusion

Infective bursitis of the ankle and foot, classified under ICD-10 code M71.17, presents with a range of symptoms including localized pain, swelling, and potential systemic signs of infection. Understanding the clinical presentation and patient characteristics is essential for healthcare providers to diagnose and manage this condition effectively. Early intervention can prevent complications and promote better outcomes for affected individuals.

ICD-10 code M71.17 refers to "Other infective bursitis" specifically affecting the ankle and foot. This code is part of a broader classification system used for diagnosing and coding various medical conditions. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this code.

Alternative Names for M71.17

1. Infective Bursitis of the Ankle and Foot: This term directly describes the condition, emphasizing the infectious nature of the bursitis in the specified anatomical locations.

2. Bursitis due to Infection: A more general term that highlights the cause of the bursitis as being infectious, applicable to various body parts, including the ankle and foot.

3. Septic Bursitis: This term is often used interchangeably with infective bursitis, indicating that the bursitis is caused by a bacterial infection.

4. Bursitis, Infective: A straightforward alternative that maintains the focus on the infectious aspect of the condition.

Related Terms

1. Bursitis: A general term for inflammation of a bursa, which can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, or repetitive motion.

2. Ankle Bursitis: Specifically refers to bursitis occurring in the ankle region, which may or may not be infectious.

3. Foot Bursitis: Similar to ankle bursitis, this term focuses on bursitis affecting the foot, encompassing both infectious and non-infectious types.

4. Bursitis M71.1: This is a broader category under which M71.17 falls, encompassing other types of infective bursitis not specifically located in the ankle and foot.

5. Infectious Bursitis: A term that can refer to bursitis caused by any infectious agent, not limited to the ankle and foot.

6. Localized Infection of Bursa: This term describes the condition in a more clinical context, indicating that the infection is localized to a specific bursa in the ankle or foot.

Understanding these alternative names and related terms can be beneficial for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and coding conditions related to bursitis, ensuring accurate communication and documentation in medical records.

The ICD-10 code M71.17 refers to "Other infective bursitis, ankle and foot." This diagnosis is part of the broader category of bursitis, which is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Understanding the criteria for diagnosing this condition involves several key components.

Diagnostic Criteria for M71.17

1. Clinical Presentation

• Symptoms: Patients typically present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness around the affected bursa in the ankle or foot. There may also be signs of inflammation, such as warmth and redness over the area.
• Functional Impairment: The condition may lead to difficulty in movement or weight-bearing activities, impacting daily functions.

2. Medical History

• Infection Risk Factors: A thorough medical history should be taken to identify any risk factors for infection, such as recent trauma, surgery, or underlying conditions like diabetes or immunosuppression.
• Previous Episodes: History of recurrent bursitis or other joint issues may also be relevant.

3. Physical Examination

• Inspection and Palpation: The healthcare provider will examine the ankle and foot for swelling, tenderness, and any visible signs of infection.
• Range of Motion: Assessment of the range of motion in the ankle and foot can help determine the extent of functional impairment.

4. Diagnostic Imaging

• Ultrasound or MRI: Imaging studies may be utilized to visualize the bursa and assess for fluid accumulation or other abnormalities indicative of infection.
• X-rays: While not specific for bursitis, X-rays can help rule out other conditions such as fractures or arthritis.

5. Laboratory Tests

• Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC) may show elevated white blood cell counts, indicating infection or inflammation.
• Bursa Aspiration: If there is significant swelling, aspiration of the bursa may be performed to analyze the fluid for signs of infection, such as the presence of bacteria or inflammatory cells.

6. Differential Diagnosis

• It is crucial to differentiate infective bursitis from other conditions that may present similarly, such as gout, septic arthritis, or other forms of bursitis that are not infectious. This may involve additional tests or imaging studies.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of M71.17, or other infective bursitis of the ankle and foot, requires a comprehensive approach that includes clinical evaluation, medical history, physical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, which may include antibiotics if an infection is confirmed, along with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for symptom management. If you have further questions or need more specific information, feel free to ask!

Infective bursitis, particularly in the ankle and foot, is classified under ICD-10 code M71.17. This condition involves inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues in joints. When it becomes infected, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Here’s a detailed overview of standard treatment approaches for this condition.

Understanding Infective Bursitis

What is Bursitis?

Bursitis occurs when the bursa becomes inflamed, often due to repetitive motion, trauma, or infection. In the case of infective bursitis, bacteria or other pathogens invade the bursa, leading to symptoms such as:

• Localized pain and tenderness
• Swelling and redness
• Limited range of motion in the affected joint
• Fever in cases of severe infection

Causes of Infective Bursitis

Infective bursitis can be caused by various factors, including:

• Direct trauma: Injury to the area can introduce bacteria.
• Infection from nearby structures: Infections in adjacent tissues can spread to the bursa.
• Systemic infections: Conditions like diabetes or immunosuppression can increase susceptibility to infections.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

Before treatment, a thorough assessment is essential. This may include:

• Physical examination: To evaluate symptoms and range of motion.
• Imaging studies: X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions.
• Laboratory tests: Blood tests or aspiration of bursal fluid can help identify the causative organism.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

If the bursitis is confirmed to be infectious, antibiotic therapy is the cornerstone of treatment. The choice of antibiotics may depend on the suspected or confirmed pathogen. Commonly used antibiotics include:

• Cephalexin: Effective against many skin bacteria.
• Clindamycin: Often used for penicillin-allergic patients.
• Vancomycin: Considered for resistant strains like MRSA.

3. Pain Management

Managing pain is crucial for recovery. Common approaches include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a corticosteroid injection into the bursa may be considered to reduce inflammation.

4. Rest and Activity Modification

Resting the affected joint is vital to allow healing. Patients are often advised to:

• Avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms.
• Use assistive devices (like crutches) if necessary to reduce weight-bearing on the affected foot.

5. Physical Therapy

Once the acute infection is managed, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility. This can include:

• Range of motion exercises: To improve mobility.
• Strengthening exercises: To support the joint and prevent future injuries.

6. Surgical Intervention

In severe cases where there is an abscess or if conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. This can involve:

• Drainage of the bursa: To remove infected fluid.
• Debridement: To clean out infected tissue.

Conclusion

Infective bursitis of the ankle and foot, classified under ICD-10 code M71.17, requires a comprehensive treatment approach that includes antibiotic therapy, pain management, rest, and possibly physical therapy or surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications and ensure a full recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek further medical evaluation to adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

ICD-10 code M71.17 refers to "Other infective bursitis" specifically affecting the ankle and foot. This classification falls under the broader category of bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, reducing friction and allowing for smooth movement.

Clinical Description

Definition of Bursitis

Bursitis is characterized by the inflammation of the bursa, which can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, repetitive motion, or underlying conditions such as arthritis. When the bursa becomes infected, it can lead to significant pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected area.

Specifics of M71.17

The code M71.17 is used to classify cases of infective bursitis that do not fall into more specific categories. It is important to note that this code is specifically for bursitis located in the ankle and foot regions. The infection can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens, leading to symptoms such as:

• Localized Pain: Patients often experience sharp or throbbing pain in the affected area, which may worsen with movement.
• Swelling and Redness: The skin over the bursa may appear swollen, red, and warm to the touch, indicating inflammation.
• Limited Range of Motion: Due to pain and swelling, patients may find it difficult to move their ankle or foot normally.
• Systemic Symptoms: In some cases, patients may also experience fever or malaise if the infection is systemic.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of infective bursitis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Physicians may perform:

• Physical Examination: Assessing the affected area for signs of inflammation and infection.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions and to visualize the extent of the inflammation.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests or aspiration of the bursa fluid may be conducted to identify the causative organism and determine the appropriate treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for M71.17 involves addressing the underlying infection and managing symptoms. Common approaches include:

• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is confirmed, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed.
• Rest and Immobilization: Limiting movement of the affected joint can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs can alleviate inflammation and discomfort.
• Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code M71.17 is crucial for accurately diagnosing and treating cases of other infective bursitis in the ankle and foot. Understanding the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment options is essential for healthcare providers to manage this condition effectively. Proper coding ensures that patients receive appropriate care and that healthcare providers can track and analyze the prevalence of this condition in clinical settings.