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ICD-10 Coding for Right Lateral Epicondylitis(M77.11)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Lateral Epicondylitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Tennis ElbowLateral Elbow Tendinopathy

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Right Lateral Epicondylitis

M77.1-M77.19Primary Range

Other enthesopathies of elbow region

This range includes specific codes for lateral epicondylitis, distinguishing between right, left, and unspecified laterality.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for right lateral epicondylitis

Essential facts and insights about Right Lateral Epicondylitis

The ICD-10 code for right lateral epicondylitis is M77.11, used for conditions affecting the right elbow.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for right lateral epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis, right elbow
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of tenderness and positive provocation tests specific to the right elbow.

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'right elbow' in the clinical notes.

Applicable To

  • Tennis elbow of right elbow

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Tenderness over the lateral epicondyle
  • Positive Cozen's test
  • Positive Mill's maneuver

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation
  • Confusion with medial epicondylitis

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented in at least three sections of the medical record.

Ancillary Codes

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

Pain in right elbow

M25.521
Use to document associated symptoms like elbow pain.

Differential Codes

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

Radial tunnel syndrome

G56.30
Pain located 3-4cm distal to the lateral epicondyle with numbness in the dorsal forearm.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Lateral Epicondylitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M77.11.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized templates that include test documentation fields., Train staff on the importance of detailed clinical notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of patient records and data analytics.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure laterality is clearly documented as 'right' in the medical record.

Impact

Failure to specify laterality can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory fields in EHR for laterality documentation.

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 Lateral Epicondylitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Right Lateral Epicondylitis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Lateral Epicondylitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Orthopedic evaluation for right lateral epicondylitis

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient's occupation and activity level
  • Specific provocation tests performed
  • Imaging results if applicable

Example Documentation

Subjective: 45-year-old right-handed mechanic with 3 months of right elbow pain. Objective: Tenderness at lateral epicondyle, positive Cozen's test. Assessment: M77.11 - Right lateral epicondylitis. Plan: Physical therapy and NSAIDs.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right elbow pain, suspect tennis elbow.
Good Documentation Example
Tenderness 2cm distal to right lateral epicondyle at ECRB origin. Pain 7/10 with resisted middle finger extension. Positive Mills maneuver.
Explanation
The good example specifies the exact location, tests performed, and results, providing a clear clinical picture.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Right Lateral Epicondylitis? Ask your questions below.

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