Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Bunionectomy(M20.10)

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

Also known as:

Hallux Valgus CorrectionBunion Surgery

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bunionectomy

M20.1-M20.19Primary Range

Hallux valgus (acquired)

This range covers the ICD-10 codes for hallux valgus, which is the primary condition treated by bunionectomy.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for bunionectomy

Essential facts and insights about Bunionectomy

The ICD-10 code for bunionectomy related to hallux valgus is M20.10 for unspecified foot. Use M20.11 for right foot and M20.12 for left foot.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for bunionectomy

Hallux valgus (acquired), unspecified foot
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Radiographic evidence of hallux valgus

documentation Criteria

  • Failure of conservative treatment documented

Applicable To

  • Bunion

Excludes

  • Congenital hallux valgus (Q66.5)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Radiographic evidence of hallux valgus
  • Documented failure of conservative treatment

Code-Specific Risks

  • Lack of specificity may lead to claim denials.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies acquired nature.

Ancillary Codes

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

Presence of right artificial ankle joint

Z96.651
Use to indicate the presence of an implant post-surgery.

Differential Codes

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

Congenital hallux valgus

Q66.5
Use for congenital cases, not acquired.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bunionectomy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M20.10.

Impact

Clinical: May affect surgical outcome documentation., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure operative report includes sesamoidectomy details.

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes for right (M20.11) or left (M20.12) hallux valgus.

Impact

High risk of audit for using unspecified codes when laterality is documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes for right or left foot.

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

Documentation Templates for Bunionectomy

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

Bunionectomy with osteotomy

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Preoperative diagnosis
  • Procedure details
  • Postoperative findings

Example Documentation

Performed bunionectomy with distal metatarsal osteotomy using 2.7mm screws for fixation.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Bunion correction performed.
Good Documentation Example
Bunionectomy with distal metatarsal chevron osteotomy at 60° angle, sesamoidectomy performed, fixation with two 2.7mm screws.
Explanation
The good example provides specific procedural details and fixation methods.

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

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more