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ICD-10 Coding for Left Ring Trigger Finger(M65.342)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Ring Trigger Finger. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Stenosing TenosynovitisTrigger Finger

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Ring Trigger Finger

M60-M79Primary Range

Soft tissue disorders

This range includes conditions related to soft tissue disorders, including trigger finger.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for left ring trigger finger

Essential facts and insights about Left Ring Trigger Finger

The ICD-10 code for left ring trigger finger is M65.342, used for specific documentation of the condition.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left ring trigger finger

Trigger finger, left ring finger
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a palpable nodule and triggering of the left ring finger.

coding Criteria

  • Documented laterality and specific finger involvement.

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of symptoms and physical findings.

Applicable To

  • Stenosing tenosynovitis of left ring finger

Excludes

  • Dupuytren's contracture

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Palpable nodule at A1 pulley
  • Locking or catching of the finger
  • Morning stiffness

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using unspecified codes when the specific finger is documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is specified to avoid using unspecified codes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications

E11.9
Use as a secondary code if the patient has diabetes, which can be a risk factor.

Differential Codes

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

Trigger finger, right ring finger

M65.341
Involvement of the right ring finger instead of the left.

Trigger finger, unspecified finger

M65.30
Use only when the specific finger is not documented.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Ring Trigger Finger to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M65.342.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the affected finger in documentation., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied or delayed due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the affected finger to use the correct code.

Impact

Using unspecified codes when specific details are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes specific finger and laterality.

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 Ring Trigger Finger, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Left Ring Trigger Finger

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

Orthopedic Evaluation

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Physical examination findings
  • Previous treatments and outcomes
  • Planned interventions

Example Documentation

58F with 6-month history of left ring finger locking, worsening with gripping. Failed 2 corticosteroid injections. Tenderness over A1 pulley, palpable nodule, active extension limited to -10°. Positive triggering on flexion. A1 pulley release scheduled.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Left finger pain
Good Documentation Example
Left ring finger triggering with morning stiffness and 5/10 pain on extension
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the affected finger and symptoms, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Left Ring Trigger Finger? Ask your questions below.

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