ICD-10 Coding for Synovitis(M65.9, M67.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Synovitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Synovitis
M65-M67Primary Range
Synovitis and tenosynovitis
This range includes primary codes for synovitis and related conditions, covering various types and locations of synovitis.
Soft tissue disorders related to use, overuse and pressure
This range includes codes for overuse-related synovitis, which are excluded from primary synovitis codes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M65.9 | Unspecified synovitis and tenosynovitis | Use when synovitis is diagnosed but specific location is not documented. |
|
| M67.3 | Transient synovitis | Use for self-limiting synovitis in children, often affecting the hip. |
|
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 synovitis
Essential facts and insights about Synovitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for synovitis
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Location of synovitis is not specified
Applicable To
- General synovitis without specific location
Excludes
- Overuse-related synovitis (M70.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical diagnosis of synovitis without specific location
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-documentation leading to unspecified coding
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the location to avoid unspecified coding.
M67.3 - Transient synovitis
Use for self-limiting synovitis in children, often affecting the hip.
Applicable To
- Self-limiting synovitis, often in children
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Diagnosis of transient synovitis, typically in children, with normal ESR
Coding Notes
Ensure age and self-limiting nature are documented.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Synovitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M65.9.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include laterality in documentation, Use templates that prompt for laterality
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Decreases the quality of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific location of synovitis.
Impact
High risk of audits due to use of unspecified codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure specific documentation of synovitis location and type.
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 Synovitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Synovitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Synovitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Rheumatoid synovitis documentation
Specialty: RheumatologyRequired Elements
- Patient history of rheumatoid arthritis
- Specific joint affected
- Imaging results
- Lab results
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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