ICD-10 Coding for Drop Foot(M21.371, M21.372)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Drop Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Drop Foot
M21.37Primary Range
Acquired deformities of foot
Primary range for acquired foot drop conditions, specifying laterality.
Intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy
Used when foot drop is secondary to lumbar radiculopathy.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M21.371 | Foot drop, right foot | Use when foot drop is present in the right foot without a specified underlying cause. |
|
| M21.372 | Foot drop, left foot | Use when foot drop is present in the left foot without a specified underlying cause. |
|
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 drop foot
Essential facts and insights about Drop Foot
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for drop foot
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of right foot drop without known etiology.
Applicable To
- Right foot drop
Excludes
- Congenital foot drop
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical examination showing inability to dorsiflex the right foot.
- Muscle strength grading (0-5 scale) indicating weakness.
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation can lead to coding errors.
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented clearly to avoid coding errors.
M21.372 - Foot drop, left foot
Use when foot drop is present in the left foot without a specified underlying cause.
Applicable To
- Left foot drop
Excludes
- Congenital foot drop
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical examination showing inability to dorsiflex the left foot.
- Muscle strength grading (0-5 scale) indicating weakness.
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented clearly to avoid coding errors.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Foot drop splint, prefabricated
L4398Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Lesion of lateral popliteal nerve
G57.3Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Drop Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M21.371.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Thorough clinical evaluation., Detailed documentation of diagnostic findings.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies whether the right or left foot is affected.
Impact
Risk of audit due to unspecified laterality in foot drop cases.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory laterality checks in clinical documentation.
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 Drop Foot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Drop Foot
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Drop Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurology Progress Note
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Subjective complaints
- Objective findings
- Assessment
- Plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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