ICD-10 Coding for Bunion Right Foot(M21.611, M20.11)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bunion Right Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bunion Right Foot
M20-M21Primary Range
Acquired deformities of fingers and toes
This range includes codes for acquired deformities of the foot, including bunions.
Congenital malformations and deformations of the musculoskeletal system
This range includes codes for congenital conditions that may be confused with acquired bunions.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M21.611 | Bunion of right foot | Use when there is a bony prominence without significant angular deformity. |
|
| M20.11 | Hallux valgus (acquired) right foot | Use when there is a structural deformity requiring surgical correction. |
|
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 bunion right foot
Essential facts and insights about Bunion Right Foot
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bunion right foot
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of bony prominence without angular deformity
documentation Criteria
- Documentation of 'acquired' and 'right foot'
Applicable To
- Acquired bunion without structural deformity
Excludes
- Congenital bunion (Q66.21x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of medial prominence at the 1st MTP joint
- No significant angular deformity
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with hallux valgus if structural deformity is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is specified to avoid denials.
M20.11 - Hallux valgus (acquired) right foot
Use when there is a structural deformity requiring surgical correction.
Applicable To
- Acquired hallux valgus with structural deformity
Excludes
- Bunion without structural deformity (M21.611)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- HVA ≥30°, IMA ≥12° on weight-bearing X-ray
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation supports structural deformity.
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 Bunion Right Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M21.611.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inaccurate treatment records., Regulatory: Can result in coding denials., Financial: May cause reimbursement issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify 'right' or 'left' in documentation., Cross-check with imaging reports.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: May result in compliance issues if documentation does not support the code., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify structural deformity through imaging before coding.
Impact
Using M21.611 instead of M20.11 when structural deformity is present.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement a checklist for imaging and clinical criteria before coding.
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 Bunion Right Foot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bunion Right Foot
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bunion Right Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bunion Evaluation
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical exam findings
- Imaging results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bunion Right Foot? Ask your questions below.