ICD-10 Coding for Left Knee Arthroscopy(M17.12, M23.202)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Knee Arthroscopy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Knee Arthroscopy
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M17.12 | Unilateral primary osteoarthritis, left knee | Use when primary osteoarthritis is confirmed as the underlying condition for arthroscopy. |
|
| M23.202 | Derangement of medial meniscus due to old tear or injury, left knee | Use when a chronic meniscus tear is identified as the reason for arthroscopy. |
|
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 knee arthroscopy
Essential facts and insights about Left Knee Arthroscopy
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left knee arthroscopy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis
documentation Criteria
- Detailed operative note specifying osteoarthritis
Applicable To
- Primary osteoarthritis of the left knee
Excludes
- Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (M17.32)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Radiographic evidence of joint space narrowing
- Persistent knee pain unresponsive to conservative treatment
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if secondary causes are present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies primary osteoarthritis.
M23.202 - Derangement of medial meniscus due to old tear or injury, left knee
Use when a chronic meniscus tear is identified as the reason for arthroscopy.
Applicable To
- Chronic meniscus tear of the left knee
Excludes
- Acute meniscus tear (S83.242A)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing meniscus tear
- History of knee injury with persistent symptoms
Coding Notes
Ensure chronicity is documented in the medical record.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Pain in left knee
M25.562Differential 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 Knee Arthroscopy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M17.12.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced payments.
Mitigation Strategy
Use checklists to ensure modifier inclusion, Educate staff on modifier importance
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced payment., Compliance: Violates NCCI edit rules., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of services provided.
Mitigation Strategy
Use only the surgical code if a procedure is performed.
Impact
Improper use of modifier 59 for separate compartment procedures.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports separate compartment work.
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 Knee Arthroscopy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Knee Arthroscopy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Knee Arthroscopy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Arthroscopic meniscectomy for chronic meniscus tear
Specialty: Orthopedic SurgeryRequired Elements
- Patient demographics
- Pre-operative diagnosis
- Operative findings
- Procedures performed
- Post-operative diagnosis
- Complications
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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