ICD-10 Coding for Olecranon Bursitis(M70.22, M71.122)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Olecranon Bursitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Olecranon Bursitis
M70.2-M71.1Primary Range
Disorders of bursae and tendons in the elbow region
This range includes codes for both non-infective and infective olecranon bursitis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M70.22 | Olecranon bursitis, left elbow | Use for non-infective bursitis related to trauma or pressure. |
|
| M71.122 | Other infective bursitis, left elbow | Use for confirmed infective bursitis with identified pathogen. |
|
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 Bursitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for olecranon bursitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Absence of infection indicators
documentation Criteria
- Documentation specifies non-infective cause
Applicable To
- Non-infective bursitis due to trauma or pressure
Excludes
- Infective bursitis (M71.1-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- History of trauma or pressure
- Absence of fever
- Bursal fluid WBC < 2,000/mm³
- Negative cultures
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if infection is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies non-infective nature and laterality.
M71.122 - Other infective bursitis, left elbow
Use for confirmed infective bursitis with identified pathogen.
Applicable To
- Septic bursitis
Excludes
- Non-infective bursitis (M70.2-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of erythema and warmth
- Fluid WBC > 10,000/mm³
- Positive Gram stain or culture
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation includes infection status and organism if known.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
B95.61Differential 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 Olecranon Bursitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M70.22.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential coding audit issues., Financial: Incorrect reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Review clinical notes for infection indicators, Query provider if unclear
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M71.122 with organism code for infective cases.
Impact
Failure to document infection status can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure infection indicators are documented and coded.
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 Bursitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Olecranon Bursitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Olecranon Bursitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Septic olecranon bursitis
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Laterality
- Infection status
- Fluid analysis results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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