ICD-10 Coding for Tendonitis(M65.271, M67.90)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Tendonitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Tendonitis
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M65.271 | Achilles tendinitis, right leg | Use when imaging confirms Achilles tendonitis in the right leg. |
|
| M67.90 | Unspecified disorder of synovium and tendon | Use when the site of tendonitis is not specified or confirmed. |
|
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 Achilles tendonitis
Essential facts and insights about Tendonitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for tendonitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed by imaging and physical exam findings
Applicable To
- Achilles tendon inflammation
Excludes
- Achilles tendon rupture (S86.011)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI or ultrasound showing tendon thickening
- Localized tenderness over the Achilles tendon
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
M67.90 - Unspecified disorder of synovium and tendon
Use when the site of tendonitis is not specified or confirmed.
Applicable To
- General tendon disorders without specific site
Excludes
- Specific tendon disorders with known site
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Generalized tendon pain without specific imaging
Coding Notes
Avoid using this code when specific site information is available.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other chronic pain
G89.29Differential 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 Tendonitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M65.271.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to vague clinical records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Review documentation for specific site details, Use site-specific codes when available
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M75.8 for shoulder lesions when bursa or tendon is unspecified.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used without justification.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific 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 Tendonitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Tendonitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Tendonitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Orthopedic evaluation for tendonitis
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Location and laterality
- Onset and duration
- Physical exam findings
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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