Olecranon bursitis, unspecified elbow

This code signifies inflammation of the olecranon bursa, a fluid-filled sac located at the posterior aspect of the elbow joint. This condition typically presents with pain, swelling, and tenderness over the olecranon process, often without a clear traumatic etiology.

Use this code when documentation specifies olecranon bursitis without further detail regarding laterality (right or left elbow). It is appropriate for cases where the physician's diagnosis is simply "olecranon bursitis" or "bursitis of the elbow" without specifying which elbow is affected.

• Do not use this code if laterality is documented; instead, select M70.21 (right) or M70.22 (left).
• Ensure the documentation clearly states "bursitis" and specifies the olecranon or elbow region.
• Consider codes for other types of bursitis if the affected bursa is not the olecranon (e.g., prepatellar bursitis).