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ICD-10 Coding for Patella Pain(M22.2X1, M22.2X2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Patella Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Anterior Knee PainPatellofemoral Pain SyndromePFPS

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Patella Pain

M22.2XPrimary Range

Patellofemoral disorders

This range includes specific codes for patellofemoral pain and disorders, which are the primary focus for patella pain.

Pain in joint

This range includes general joint pain codes, which may be used if patellofemoral specificity is not documented.

Pain, not elsewhere classified

This range is used for coding pain management scenarios, particularly when pain control is the primary focus of the encounter.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
M22.2X1Patellofemoral disorders, right kneeUse when the patient presents with specific patellofemoral pain in the right knee.
  • Retropatellar pain during activities like squatting or stair climbing
  • Positive patellar tilt test
M22.2X2Patellofemoral disorders, left kneeUse when the patient presents with specific patellofemoral pain in the left knee.
  • Pain localized to the left patella during physical activities
  • Positive J-sign tracking during active knee extension

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 patella pain

Essential facts and insights about Patella Pain

The ICD-10 code for patella pain, specifically patellofemoral pain syndrome, is M22.2X1 for the right knee and M22.2X2 for the left knee.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for patella pain

Patellofemoral disorders, right knee
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of retropatellar pain and positive patellar tilt test

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify laterality and specific patellar involvement

Applicable To

  • Right knee patellofemoral pain syndrome

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Retropatellar pain during activities like squatting or stair climbing
  • Positive patellar tilt test

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as general knee pain without specifying patellar involvement

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies patellar involvement and laterality.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other chronic pain

G89.29
Use when chronic pain management is the primary focus of the encounter.

Differential Codes

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

Pain in right knee

M25.561
Use when knee pain is not specifically localized to the patella.

Pain in left knee

M25.562
Use when knee pain is not specifically localized to the patella.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Patella Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M22.2X1.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit failures due to inaccurate coding., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement due to non-specific codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on the importance of detailed documentation, Use templates that prompt for specific details

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement due to less specific coding., Compliance: Inaccurate coding can lead to compliance issues during audits., Data Quality: Affects data quality and accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies patellar involvement and use M22.2X codes.

Impact

Using general knee pain codes instead of specific patellofemoral disorder codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation supports the use of specific M22.2X codes.

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 Patella Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Patella Pain

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Patella Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Orthopedic evaluation of patellofemoral pain

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Location and laterality of pain
  • Aggravating activities
  • Physical exam findings
  • Specific tests performed

Example Documentation

Patient reports 6/10 pain behind left patella worsening with stair descent. Exam: Lateral patellar glide >15mm, tenderness at medial retinaculum.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Knee pain
Good Documentation Example
Retropatellar pain reproduced during resisted knee extension and 30° patellar tilt
Explanation
The good example specifies the location and test results, supporting specific coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Patella Pain? Ask your questions below.

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