ICD-10 Coding for Left Calf Pain(M79.662, I82.422)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Calf Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Calf Pain
M79.6Primary Range
Pain in limb
This range includes codes for pain in specific parts of the limbs, including the calf.
Acute embolism and thrombosis of deep veins of lower extremity
Relevant for cases where calf pain is due to deep vein thrombosis.
Injury of muscle and tendon at lower leg level
Applicable when calf pain is due to muscle strain or injury.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M79.662 | Pain in left lower leg | Use when pain is specifically localized to the left calf without a more specific underlying cause. |
|
| I82.422 | Acute embolism and thrombosis of left popliteal vein | Use when DVT is confirmed as the cause of left calf pain. |
|
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 left calf pain
Essential facts and insights about Left Calf Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left calf pain
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Pain localized to the left calf with no other specified cause
coding Criteria
- Use when documentation specifies 'left calf pain'
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of pain localized to the left calf
- Exclusion of other causes such as DVT or muscle strain
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes when laterality is documented
- Confusion with more general leg pain codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'left calf' to avoid using unspecified codes.
I82.422 - Acute embolism and thrombosis of left popliteal vein
Use when DVT is confirmed as the cause of left calf pain.
Applicable To
- DVT of left calf
Excludes
- Chronic embolism and thrombosis of left popliteal vein (I82.522)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ultrasound confirmation of thrombus
- Positive D-dimer test
Coding Notes
Ensure DVT is confirmed through imaging before coding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Acute embolism and thrombosis of left popliteal vein
I82.422Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Calf Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.662.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: Potential for claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify 'left' or 'right' in documentation, Use templates that prompt for laterality
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements, Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'calf' to use M79.662.
Impact
Using general codes when specific codes are available
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the most specific code possible
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 Left Calf Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Calf Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Calf Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Suspected DVT
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient history including recent travel or immobility
- Physical exam findings such as swelling or tenderness
- Imaging results confirming DVT
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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