ICD-10 Coding for Bursitis Left Elbow(M70.22, M71.122)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bursitis Left Elbow. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bursitis Left Elbow
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M70.22 | Olecranon bursitis, left elbow | Use for non-infectious cases of olecranon bursitis in the left elbow. |
|
| M71.122 | Other infective bursitis, left elbow | Use when there is confirmed or suspected infection in the bursitis. |
|
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 bursitis left elbow
Essential facts and insights about Bursitis Left Elbow
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bursitis left elbow
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Swelling and tenderness over the olecranon without signs of infection.
documentation Criteria
- Documented history of repetitive elbow pressure.
Applicable To
- Non-infectious olecranon bursitis
Excludes
- Infective bursitis (M71.122)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Physical exam showing swelling over the olecranon
- History of repetitive trauma or pressure
- Radiographic evidence of soft tissue swelling
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as unspecified bursitis
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented as 'left'.
M71.122 - Other infective bursitis, left elbow
Use when there is confirmed or suspected infection in the bursitis.
Applicable To
- Infective olecranon bursitis
Excludes
- Non-infective bursitis (M70.22)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Synovial fluid analysis showing WBC > 2000/mm³
- Positive bacterial cultures
- Systemic signs of infection such as fever
Coding Notes
Ensure infection is documented with supporting lab results.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bursitis Left Elbow to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M70.22.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment plans due to lack of infection status., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document culture results and antibiotic use, Include systemic signs of infection in notes
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential denial of claims due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data for clinical analysis and reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality and type of bursitis.
Impact
Risk of audit if infection is coded without supporting documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all infection-related documentation is complete and accurate.
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 Bursitis Left Elbow, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bursitis Left Elbow
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bursitis Left Elbow. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Non-infectious olecranon bursitis
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Patient history of elbow pressure
- Physical exam findings
- Radiographic evidence
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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