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ICD-10 Coding for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist)(G56.01)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist). Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

CTS Right WristMedian Nerve Compression Right Wrist

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist)

G56.00-G56.03Primary Range

Mononeuropathies of upper limb

This range includes specific codes for carpal tunnel syndrome with laterality.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for carpal tunnel right wrist

Essential facts and insights about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist)

The ICD-10 code for carpal tunnel syndrome in the right wrist is G56.01.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for carpal tunnel right wrist

Carpal tunnel syndrome, right upper limb
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of positive Tinel’s and Phalen’s tests

coding Criteria

  • Confirmed diagnosis of CTS in the right wrist

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of clinical tests and EMG results

Applicable To

  • Right wrist carpal tunnel syndrome

Excludes

  • Other median nerve lesions (G56.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Positive Tinel’s sign
  • Positive Phalen’s test
  • EMG shows delayed median nerve conduction

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality coding
  • Using unspecified code G56.00

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports the laterality and specific tests confirming CTS.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Pain in right arm

M79.604
Use for associated pain management.

Other chronic pain

G89.29
Use if chronic pain is a significant part of the clinical picture.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Other median nerve lesions

G56.1
Use G56.1 for median nerve issues not related to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist) to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G56.01.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to unspecified coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify right or left in documentation., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in denied claims due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for laterality., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data for patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use G56.01 for right wrist to ensure correct laterality.

Impact

Failure to code laterality correctly can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes for right or left side as applicable.

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 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist), with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist)

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist). These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Initial diagnosis of right wrist CTS

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history of symptoms
  • Physical exam findings
  • EMG results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with numbness in right thumb, index, and middle fingers. Positive Tinel’s and Phalen’s tests. EMG confirms delayed median nerve conduction.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has wrist pain.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports nocturnal numbness in right digits 1-3, positive Tinel’s sign at right wrist.
Explanation
The good example provides specific symptoms and test results, supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Right Wrist)? Ask your questions below.

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