ICD-10 Coding for Flexor Tenosynovitis(M65.1, M65.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Flexor Tenosynovitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Flexor Tenosynovitis
M65.1-M65.9Primary Range
Synovitis and tenosynovitis
This range includes codes for various types of tenosynovitis, including infectious and non-infectious forms.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M65.1 | Other infective (teno)synovitis | Use when there is confirmed infection in the tendon sheath, supported by clinical signs and lab results. |
|
| M65.8 | Other synovitis and tenosynovitis | Use for non-infectious cases, particularly those associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. |
|
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 flexor tenosynovitis
Essential facts and insights about Flexor Tenosynovitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for flexor tenosynovitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of Kanavel's signs and purulent drainage
documentation Criteria
- Culture results identifying organism
Applicable To
- Infectious flexor tenosynovitis
Excludes
- Non-infectious tenosynovitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Kanavel's signs
- Purulent drainage
- Elevated WBC or CRP
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as non-infectious
- Omission of organism code
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies infection and identifies the organism.
M65.8 - Other synovitis and tenosynovitis
Use for non-infectious cases, particularly those associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Applicable To
- Non-infectious flexor tenosynovitis
Excludes
- Infectious tenosynovitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Absence of infection markers
- History of autoimmune conditions
Coding Notes
Document any associated conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
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 Flexor Tenosynovitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M65.1.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure culture results are documented., Specify organism if known.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M65.1 with an organism code if infection is confirmed.
Impact
Using non-specific codes for confirmed infections.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on coding guidelines and documentation standards.
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 Flexor Tenosynovitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Flexor Tenosynovitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Flexor Tenosynovitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute infectious flexor tenosynovitis
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Kanavel's signs
- Culture results
- Operative findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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