ICD-10 Coding for Patellar Tendinitis(M76.51, M76.52, M76.50)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Patellar Tendinitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Patellar Tendinitis
M76.5Primary Range
Patellar tendinitis
This range covers all codes related to patellar tendinitis, specifying laterality and unspecified cases.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M76.51 | Patellar tendinitis, right knee | Use when patellar tendinitis is confirmed in the right knee with clinical validation. |
|
| M76.52 | Patellar tendinitis, left knee | Use when patellar tendinitis is confirmed in the left knee with clinical validation. |
|
| M76.50 | Patellar tendinitis, unspecified knee | Use only when laterality cannot be determined after thorough examination. |
|
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 patellar tendinitis
Essential facts and insights about Patellar Tendinitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for patellar tendinitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Pain localized to the inferior patella with load-dependent symptoms
Applicable To
- Right knee pain due to patellar tendinitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Pain localized to the inferior patella
- Load-dependent symptoms such as pain during jumping or stair descent
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using M76.50 when laterality is documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified codes.
M76.52 - Patellar tendinitis, left knee
Use when patellar tendinitis is confirmed in the left knee with clinical validation.
Applicable To
- Left knee pain due to patellar tendinitis
Excludes
- Achilles tendinitis (M76.6)
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (M22.2x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Pain localized to the inferior patella
- Load-dependent symptoms such as pain during jumping or stair descent
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified codes.
M76.50 - Patellar tendinitis, unspecified knee
Use only when laterality cannot be determined after thorough examination.
Applicable To
- Knee pain due to patellar tendinitis without specified laterality
Excludes
- Achilles tendinitis (M76.6)
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (M22.2x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- General knee pain without specific laterality documented
Coding Notes
Avoid using this code if laterality can be determined.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Patellofemoral disorders
M22.2xDocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Patellar Tendinitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M76.51.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include laterality in documentation., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure laterality is specified in the documentation and use M76.51 or M76.52 accordingly.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when laterality is documented can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all documentation specifies laterality and use the correct codes.
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 Patellar Tendinitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Patellar Tendinitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Patellar Tendinitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Orthopedic evaluation for patellar tendinitis
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Patient history of knee pain
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Laterality of the condition
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Patellar Tendinitis? Ask your questions below.