ICD-10 Coding for Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist(M67.431, M67.432, M67.439)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist
M67.4-M67.439Primary Range
Ganglion of joint
This range includes codes specific to ganglion cysts located in various joints, including the wrist.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M67.431 | Ganglion, right wrist | Use when the ganglion cyst is confirmed on the right wrist with documented laterality. |
|
| M67.432 | Ganglion, left wrist | Use when the ganglion cyst is confirmed on the left wrist with documented laterality. |
|
| M67.439 | Ganglion, unspecified wrist | Use only when laterality cannot be determined. |
|
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 ganglion cyst wrist
Essential facts and insights about Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for ganglion cyst wrist
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of a cyst on the right wrist confirmed by imaging
Applicable To
- Ganglion cyst of the right wrist
Excludes
- Synovial cyst (M71.3-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation (e.g., ultrasound, MRI)
- Documented symptoms such as pain or swelling
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of unspecified coding if laterality is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
M67.432 - Ganglion, left wrist
Use when the ganglion cyst is confirmed on the left wrist with documented laterality.
Applicable To
- Ganglion cyst of the left wrist
Excludes
- Synovial cyst (M71.3-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation (e.g., ultrasound, MRI)
- Documented symptoms such as pain or swelling
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
M67.439 - Ganglion, unspecified wrist
Use only when laterality cannot be determined.
Applicable To
- Ganglion cyst of the wrist, unspecified
Excludes
- Synovial cyst (M71.3-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation (e.g., ultrasound, MRI)
- Documented symptoms such as pain or swelling
Coding Notes
Document efforts to determine laterality to justify use of unspecified code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Aspiration and/or injection of ganglion cyst(s)
20612Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M67.431.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis or treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Financial: Potential denial of claims due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include imaging results in the patient's record., Verify documentation before claim submission.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to unspecified coding., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific side (right or left) of the wrist.
Impact
Use of unspecified codes increases audit risk.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document laterality and specific location.
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 Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Ganglion Cyst of the Wrist. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Excision of ganglion cyst
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Procedure details
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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