ICD-10 Coding for Ankle Tendonitis(M76.61, M76.62)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Ankle Tendonitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Ankle Tendonitis
M76.6-M76.8Primary Range
Tendinitis of lower limb, excluding foot
This range includes specific codes for Achilles and other ankle tendinitis conditions.
Pain in ankle and joints of foot
Used for documenting pain in the ankle and foot joints when specific tendinitis is not confirmed.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M76.61 | Achilles tendinitis, right leg | Use when there is confirmed Achilles tendinitis in the right leg with specific clinical findings. |
|
| M76.62 | Achilles tendinitis, left leg | Use when there is confirmed Achilles tendinitis in the left leg with specific clinical findings. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for Achilles tendinitis
Essential facts and insights about Ankle Tendonitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for ankle tendonitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of tenderness and pain with resisted plantar flexion
Applicable To
- Right Achilles tendinitis
Excludes
- Non-specific ankle pain
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Tenderness along the Achilles tendon
- Pain with resisted plantar flexion
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes if laterality is not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified codes.
M76.62 - Achilles tendinitis, left leg
Use when there is confirmed Achilles tendinitis in the left leg with specific clinical findings.
Applicable To
- Left Achilles tendinitis
Excludes
- Non-specific ankle pain
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Tenderness along the Achilles tendon
- Pain with resisted plantar flexion
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified codes.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Ankle Tendonitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M76.61.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates that prompt for specific tendon documentation., Educate staff on the importance of detailed documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the specific side affected (right or left) to use the correct code.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields in EHR for laterality.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Ankle Tendonitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Ankle Tendonitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Ankle Tendonitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Achilles Tendinitis
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Subjective: Patient's pain description and history
- Objective: Physical exam findings
- Assessment: Diagnosis with ICD-10 code
- Plan: Treatment plan including orthotics or PT
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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