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ICD-10 Coding for Hallux Valgus Left(M20.12)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hallux Valgus Left. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Bunion Left FootLeft Foot Bunion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hallux Valgus Left

M20.1-M20.12Primary Range

Acquired deformities of toes

This range includes codes for acquired deformities of the toes, specifically hallux valgus.

Congenital deformities of feet

This range includes codes for congenital deformities, which are not typically used for acquired hallux valgus.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for hallux valgus left foot

Essential facts and insights about Hallux Valgus Left

The ICD-10 code for hallux valgus of the left foot is M20.12, used for acquired deformities with specific radiographic angles.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for hallux valgus left

Hallux valgus (acquired), left foot
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of medial deviation of 1st metatarsal and lateral deviation of hallux

documentation Criteria

  • Radiographic confirmation with HAV angle >15° and IM angle >9°

Applicable To

  • Bunion of left foot

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Medial deviation of 1st metatarsal
  • Lateral deviation of hallux
  • HAV angle >15°
  • IM angle >9°

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with congenital deformities
  • Using unspecified codes despite available specificity

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'acquired' and includes radiographic angles.

Differential Codes

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

Congenital metatarsus primus varus, left foot

Q66.212
Present at birth, not acquired.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hallux Valgus Left to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M20.12.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inaccurate clinical records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies laterality and acquired nature., Use specific codes when criteria are met.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Query for specific angles or use M21.612 if hallux valgus criteria are not met.

Impact

Risk of using unspecified codes when specific codes are applicable.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation and use of specific codes.

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 Hallux Valgus Left, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Hallux Valgus Left

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hallux Valgus Left. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Podiatry Progress Note

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Subjective pain description
  • Objective findings including ROM and TTP
  • Radiographic angles
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

**Subjective:** 'Worsening left foot pain aggravated by narrow shoes. Rates 7/10 on VAS.' **Objective:** - TTP medial 1st MTP, erythema - ROM: 10° dorsiflexion (limited by pain) - Imaging: HAV 22°, IM 10° (left) **Assessment:** M20.12 - Hallux valgus (acquired), left foot **Plan:** Lapidus bunionectomy scheduled. Pre-op clearance ordered.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Painful left big toe bump.
Good Documentation Example
Symptomatic left hallux valgus with HAV 25°, IM 11° on radiographs. Failed conservative management: 6 months of wide toe-box shoes, custom orthotics, and naproxen 500mg BID.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical details and treatment history, supporting the diagnosis and coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Hallux Valgus Left? Ask your questions below.

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