M71.05 Abscess of bursa, hip

Name of the Condition

• Abscess of bursa, hip

Summary

An abscess of the bursa, hip is a localized collection of pus within the bursa of the hip, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues. This condition typically causes pain, swelling, and warmth at the affected site. The hip-specific designation indicates the abscess is localized to the bursa in the hip region.

Causes

Abscesses of the hip bursa usually result from bacterial infection, often introduced through direct trauma, skin breakdown, or spread from adjacent tissues. Staphylococcus aureus is a common causative organism. Non-infectious causes, such as foreign body reaction or sterile inflammation, are less frequent.

Risk Factors

• Recent injury or surgery near the hip bursa
• Skin infections or open wounds in the hip area
• Immunocompromised states (e.g., diabetes, HIV)
• Chronic inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Repetitive motion or pressure on the hip bursa

Symptoms

• Localized pain, tenderness, or throbbing in the hip
• Swelling, redness, or warmth over the bursa
• Limited range of motion in the hip joint
• Possible fever or systemic signs if infection spreads
• Pus drainage if the abscess ruptures

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess bursal swelling, warmth, and tenderness. Imaging (e.g., ultrasound) may confirm fluid collection. Aspiration of the bursa may be performed to identify the causative organism and guide treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment typically includes antibiotic therapy to address the underlying infection. In some cases, surgical drainage of the abscess may be necessary to remove pus and promote healing. Rest and activity modification may help reduce inflammation and support recovery.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, most hip bursal abscesses resolve without long-term complications. Follow-up care may involve monitoring for recurrence or signs of infection spread. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore joint function if mobility is impaired.

Complications

Untreated or severe abscesses can lead to the spread of infection to surrounding tissues or bloodstream (sepsis). Chronic inflammation or scarring may result in persistent pain or limited mobility.

Lifestyle & Prevention

Maintain good skin hygiene to reduce infection risk. Avoid repetitive pressure or trauma to the hip area. Promptly treat skin injuries or infections near the hip to prevent spread to the bursa.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent hip pain, swelling, or fever, or if symptoms worsen despite home care. Immediate care is needed if pus drainage, severe pain, or signs of systemic infection (e.g., chills, confusion) occur.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the specific location (hip) and clinical findings (e.g., abscess, infection) to support accurate coding. Ensure the diagnosis aligns with the anatomical site and clinical presentation. Review clinical notes for details on infection source or treatment to confirm code specificity.