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ICD-10 Coding for Left Achilles Tendinitis(M76.62)

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

Also known as:

Left Achilles TendonitisLeft Achilles Tendinopathy

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Achilles Tendinitis

M76.6-M76.62Primary Range

Achilles tendinitis

This range includes codes for Achilles tendinitis, specifying laterality and associated conditions.

Other specified disorders of tendon

Used for tendon disorders not specifically classified under tendinitis, such as tendinosis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for left Achilles tendinitis

Essential facts and insights about Left Achilles Tendinitis

The ICD-10 code for left Achilles tendinitis is M76.62, which specifies tendinitis of the left Achilles tendon.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left achilles tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis, left leg
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of tenderness and swelling in the left Achilles tendon

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify 'left' for accurate coding

Applicable To

  • Left Achilles tendinitis with inflammation

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Tenderness on palpation 2-6 cm above the left heel
  • Positive arc sign
  • Ultrasound showing tendon thickening

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using M76.60 when laterality is documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'left' to avoid using unspecified codes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Obesity, unspecified

E66.9
Use when obesity is a comorbidity affecting the condition.

Differential Codes

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

Strain of Achilles tendon, left leg

S86.011A
Use for acute rupture, confirmed by positive Thompson test.

Other specified disorders of tendon, unspecified ankle/foot

M67.879
Use for chronic degeneration without acute inflammation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Achilles Tendinitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M76.62.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or delays.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on the importance of documenting laterality.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'left' to use M76.62

Impact

Failure to document laterality can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement checks to ensure laterality is documented.

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 Left Achilles Tendinitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Left Achilles Tendinitis

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

Orthopedic evaluation for left Achilles tendinitis

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with left heel pain. Exam reveals tenderness 3 cm above the calcaneal insertion. Ultrasound confirms tendon thickening. Diagnosis: Left Achilles tendinitis (M76.62).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has Achilles pain.
Good Documentation Example
Patient has left Achilles tendinitis with tenderness and swelling 3 cm above the heel.
Explanation
The good example specifies laterality and clinical findings, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Left Achilles Tendinitis? Ask your questions below.

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