ICD-10 Coding for Bursitis(M70.5, M71.57)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bursitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bursitis
M70-M71Primary Range
Disorders of bursae and tendons in diseases classified elsewhere
This range includes codes specific to bursitis, covering various anatomical sites and causes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M70.5 | Bursitis of knee | Use for bursitis localized to the knee, confirmed by imaging or clinical examination. |
|
| M71.57 | Other bursitis, ankle and foot | Use for bursitis in the ankle or foot not caused by pressure. |
|
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
Essential facts and insights about Bursitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bursitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of swelling and pain localized to the knee
documentation Criteria
- Imaging confirmation of bursal fluid
Applicable To
- Prepatellar bursitis
- Infrapatellar bursitis
Excludes
- Shoulder bursitis
- Tibial collateral bursitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical examination showing localized swelling
- MRI confirming fluid in the bursa
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with other knee pathologies
- Incorrect laterality documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies laterality and activity causing the bursitis.
M71.57 - Other bursitis, ankle and foot
Use for bursitis in the ankle or foot not caused by pressure.
Applicable To
- Bursitis of ankle
- Bursitis of foot
Excludes
- Pressure-induced bursitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Physical exam showing tenderness and swelling
- Ultrasound showing fluid accumulation
Coding Notes
Document the specific location and activity associated with the bursitis.
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 to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M70.5.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Increases risk of coding audits., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include laterality in documentation., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audits and compliance issues., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health data records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific site and cause of bursitis.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when specific ones are available increases audit risk.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the most specific code available.
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, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bursitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bursitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bursitis due to repetitive motion
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Anatomical site
- Laterality
- Causative activity
- Imaging confirmation
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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