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ICD-10 Coding for Gastrocnemius Equinus(M67.07)

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

Also known as:

Calf Muscle TightnessGastrocnemius Contracturegastroc equinus

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Gastrocnemius Equinus

M67-M67.9Primary Range

Other disorders of synovium and tendon

This range includes codes for disorders affecting the synovium and tendon, including gastrocnemius contracture.

Cerebral palsy

Relevant for differential diagnosis when equinus is secondary to cerebral palsy.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for gastrocnemius equinus

Essential facts and insights about Gastrocnemius Equinus

The ICD-10 code for gastrocnemius equinus is M67.07, used for acquired gastrocnemius contracture.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for gastrocnemius equinus

Gastrocnemius contracture, acquired
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Positive Silfverskiöld test with improved dorsiflexion when knee is flexed

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed notes on physical exam and treatment history

Applicable To

  • Isolated gastrocnemius tightness

Excludes

  • Soleus contracture

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Silfverskiöld test showing improved dorsiflexion with knee flexed
  • Failed conservative treatment for at least 3 months

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with soleus involvement
  • Inadequate documentation of knee position during testing

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes specific test results and failed conservative measures.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other symptoms and signs involving the musculoskeletal system

R29.898
Use for documenting gait abnormalities associated with equinus.

Differential Codes

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

Other specified disorders of synovium and tendon, lower leg

M67.08
Use when both gastrocnemius and soleus are involved, confirmed by no improvement in dorsiflexion with knee flexion.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Gastrocnemius Equinus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M67.07.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis of the type of equinus contracture., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document knee position during physical exams., Use templates to ensure all necessary details are captured.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied due to insufficient documentation., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Include detailed records of physical therapy and stretching regimens.

Impact

Lack of detailed records on failed conservative treatments.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement standardized documentation templates.

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

Documentation Templates for Gastrocnemius Equinus

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

Gastrocnemius Equinus with Failed Conservative Treatment

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical exam findings
  • Silfverskiöld test results
  • Conservative treatment history

Example Documentation

Patient presents with limited dorsiflexion (-5°) with knee extended, improving to +10° with knee flexed. Failed 3 months of calf stretching.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has tight calf muscles.
Good Documentation Example
Gastrocnemius contracture confirmed via Silfverskiöld: 0° dorsiflexion knee extended → +12° knee flexed. Failed 12 weeks of daily 5-minute gastrocnemius-specific stretches.
Explanation
The good example provides specific test results and treatment history, supporting the diagnosis.

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

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