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ICD-10 Coding for Left Thumb Trigger Finger(M65.312)

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

Also known as:

Trigger ThumbStenosing Tenosynovitis of the Thumb

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Thumb Trigger Finger

M65.3Primary Range

Trigger finger

This range includes all trigger finger diagnoses, with specific codes for each finger and laterality.

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

Essential facts and insights about Left Thumb Trigger Finger

The ICD-10 code for left thumb trigger finger is M65.312, used for confirmed diagnoses with documented laterality.

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

Trigger thumb, left thumb
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a palpable nodule and triggering on flexion.

documentation Criteria

  • Document laterality and specific symptoms.

Applicable To

  • Stenosing tenosynovitis of the left thumb

Excludes

  • Dupuytren's contracture (M72.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Tenderness at A1 pulley
  • Active triggering
  • Normal radiographs

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using unspecified codes when laterality is known.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Chronic pain

G89.29
Use if pain persists for more than 3 months.

Soft tissue inflammation, left hand

M79.604
Use if tenosynovitis is present without definitive trigger thumb.

Differential Codes

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

Trigger finger, ring finger

M65.34
Differentiate by identifying the specific finger affected.

Dupuytren's contracture

M72.2
Document absence of palmar fascial thickening.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Thumb Trigger Finger to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M65.312.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates that prompt for laterality., Regularly review documentation for completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code for the specific finger and laterality.

Impact

Risk of using unspecified codes when specific codes are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular training on documentation and coding specificity.

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

Documentation Templates for Left Thumb Trigger Finger

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

Orthopedic Evaluation for Trigger Finger

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with left thumb locking. Examination reveals tenderness at A1 pulley and a palpable nodule. Diagnosis: M65.312. Plan: Consider corticosteroid injection.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has trigger thumb. Injection given.
Good Documentation Example
Left thumb locks in flexion with audible snap upon forced extension. 8mm nodule palpated at A1 pulley. Failed 6 weeks of night splinting. 1mL dexamethasone injected into flexor sheath under sterile technique.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the location, symptoms, and treatment, supporting the diagnosis and coding.

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

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