ICD-10 Coding for Right Foot Osteomyelitis(M86.171, M86.371)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Foot Osteomyelitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Right Foot Osteomyelitis
M86.0-M86.9Primary Range
Osteomyelitis
This range includes all types of osteomyelitis, including acute, subacute, and chronic forms affecting the right foot.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M86.171 | Other acute osteomyelitis, right ankle and foot | Use for non-hematogenous acute osteomyelitis of the right foot. |
|
| M86.371 | Chronic multifocal osteomyelitis, right ankle and foot | Use for chronic cases with recurrent symptoms. |
|
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 right foot osteomyelitis
Essential facts and insights about Right Foot Osteomyelitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for right foot osteomyelitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of acute symptoms and MRI confirmation
Applicable To
- Acute osteomyelitis of right foot
Excludes
- Chronic osteomyelitis (M86.371)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing bone marrow edema
- Bone biopsy confirming infection
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using for chronic cases
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'acute' and 'right foot'.
M86.371 - Chronic multifocal osteomyelitis, right ankle and foot
Use for chronic cases with recurrent symptoms.
Applicable To
- Chronic osteomyelitis of right foot
Excludes
- Acute osteomyelitis (M86.171)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray showing sequestrum formation
- Recurrent symptoms over months
Coding Notes
Document chronicity and recurrent nature.
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
B95.6Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Foot Osteomyelitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M86.171.
Impact
Clinical: Ambiguity in treatment plans., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Denied claims due to unspecified codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document 'right' or 'left' in clinical notes.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may affect payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify chronicity and use M86.371 if appropriate.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to coding errors.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory laterality fields in EHR.
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 Right Foot Osteomyelitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Right Foot Osteomyelitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Foot Osteomyelitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute Osteomyelitis Documentation
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Imaging findings
- Lab results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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