ICD-10 Coding for Olecranon Bursa(M70.21, M70.22, M70.20)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Olecranon Bursa. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Olecranon Bursa
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M70.21 | Olecranon bursitis, right elbow | Use when bursitis is confirmed in the right elbow without infection. |
|
| M70.22 | Olecranon bursitis, left elbow | Use when bursitis is confirmed in the left elbow without infection. |
|
| M70.20 | Olecranon bursitis, unspecified elbow | Use when bursitis is confirmed but laterality is not specified. |
|
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 olecranon bursitis
Essential facts and insights about Olecranon Bursa
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for olecranon bursa
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of swelling and pain in the right elbow
Applicable To
- Right elbow bursitis
Excludes
- Other infective bursitis (M71.1-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of right elbow swelling
- Aspiration results showing non-infective fluid
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
M70.22 - Olecranon bursitis, left elbow
Use when bursitis is confirmed in the left elbow without infection.
Applicable To
- Left elbow bursitis
Excludes
- Other infective bursitis (M71.1-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of left elbow swelling
- Aspiration results showing non-infective fluid
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
M70.20 - Olecranon bursitis, unspecified elbow
Use when bursitis is confirmed but laterality is not specified.
Applicable To
- Unspecified elbow bursitis
Excludes
- Other infective bursitis (M71.1-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of elbow swelling without specified laterality
Coding Notes
Encourage documentation of laterality for specificity.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other infective bursitis, right elbow
M71.121Other infective bursitis, left elbow
M71.122Other infective bursitis, unspecified elbow
M71.129Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Olecranon Bursa to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M70.21.
Impact
Clinical: Ambiguity in treatment location, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on importance of laterality, Use templates that prompt for laterality
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data for clinical and research purposes.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies olecranon location to use M70.22.
Impact
High risk of audit if laterality is not documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory laterality documentation in EHR systems.
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 Olecranon Bursa, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Olecranon Bursa
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Olecranon Bursa. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Non-infectious Olecranon Bursitis
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Laterality
- Aspiration results
- Clinical signs
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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