ICD-10 Coding for Left Thigh Pain(M79.652)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Thigh Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Thigh Pain
M79.6Primary Range
Pain in limb
This range includes codes for pain in specific limbs, including the left thigh.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for left thigh pain
Essential facts and insights about Left Thigh Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left thigh pain
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Pain localized to left thigh with no other underlying condition identified.
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must specify 'left thigh' and describe pain characteristics.
Applicable To
- Localized pain in left thigh
Excludes
- Pain in unspecified leg (M79.606)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient reports localized pain in left thigh
- Physical exam shows tenderness in left thigh
- Imaging rules out fractures or masses
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes if laterality is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'left thigh' to avoid using unspecified codes.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Strain of unspecified muscle, fascia and tendon at thigh level, left thigh, initial encounter
S76.91XADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Thigh Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.652.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates that require laterality, Train staff on importance of specificity
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases data accuracy and quality.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'left thigh' to use M79.652.
Impact
Lack of specificity in documentation can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Use detailed templates and conduct regular training.
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 Thigh Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Thigh Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Thigh Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Orthopedic Evaluation
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Pain characteristics
- Physical exam findings
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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