Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of hip

This code signifies the presence of degenerative joint disease affecting both hip joints, where the osteoarthritis is not secondary to another underlying condition. It indicates a primary, idiopathic form of cartilage breakdown and bone changes occurring in the acetabulum and femoral head of both hips.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "bilateral primary osteoarthritis of the hip" or "idiopathic osteoarthritis of both hips." This diagnosis is supported by imaging studies (e.g., X-rays) showing characteristic osteoarthritic changes in both hips, coupled with clinical symptoms such as bilateral hip pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, without an identifiable cause like trauma or inflammatory arthritis.

• Ensure documentation specifies "primary" or "idiopathic" to differentiate from secondary osteoarthritis.
• Do not use this code if only one hip is affected; instead, use the appropriate unilateral code (M16.11 or M16.12).
• If the laterality is not specified but both hips are clearly affected by primary osteoarthritis, this code is appropriate.