Name of the Condition

• Unilateral Primary Osteoarthritis, Left Hip
• Also known as osteoarthritis of the left hip, degenerative joint disease of the left hip.

Summary

Unilateral primary osteoarthritis of the left hip is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the left hip joint. This condition leads to pain, stiffness, and impaired movement in the affected hip.

Causes

• Age-related wear and tear on the joint.
• Previous hip injuries or trauma.
• Genetic predisposition may play a role.
• Mechanical stress on the hip joint due to obesity or certain occupations.

Risk Factors

• Being over the age of 50.
• Family history of osteoarthritis.
• Obesity, which increases stress on the hip joint.
• Prior joint injuries or surgeries.
• Repetitive stress on the hip joint from occupations or sports.

Symptoms

• Persistent pain in the left hip, especially during or after moving.
• Stiffness in the hip joint after sitting or resting for extended periods.
• Reduced range of motion in the hip.
• A grating sensation or sound during hip movement.

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination: Evaluation of symptoms and hip movement.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays to identify cartilage loss, bone changes, and bone spurs.
• MRI: Occasionally used for detailed images when further assessment is needed.

Treatment Options

• Medications: NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles around the hip and improve flexibility.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management and low-impact exercises.
• Surgical Options: Hip replacement surgery in severe cases where conservative treatments are ineffective.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many patients can manage symptoms effectively with lifestyle changes and treatments.
• Regular follow-ups are important to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment plans.

Complications

• If untreated, can lead to severe pain and disability.
• Increased risk for falls and related injuries due to joint instability.
• May lead to the need for surgical intervention if conservative treatments fail.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip joint.
• Regular, moderate exercise to strengthen surrounding muscles and maintain flexibility.
• Avoiding high-impact activities or movements that strain the hip joint.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden, severe, or worsening pain in the hip.
• Noticeable swelling, redness, or warmth around the hip joint.
• Difficulty in walking or moving the hip.

Additional Resources

• Arthritis Foundation: www.arthritis.org
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: www.aaos.org
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: www.niams.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of laterality—specifically, the left hip.
• Verify that the condition is primary, which means no other underlying conditions are causing the osteoarthritis.
• Ensure that ICD code M16.12 is used for unilateral primary osteoarthritis of the left hip.
• Common errors include mislabeling laterality or missing the specification of primary osteoarthritis.