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ICD-10 Coding for Swelling of Foot(R60.0, I87.1)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Swelling of Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Foot EdemaLocalized Foot Swelling

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Swelling of Foot

R60-R60.9Primary Range

Edema

This range includes codes for different types of edema, including localized and generalized, which are relevant for coding swelling of the foot.

Other disorders of veins

Includes codes for venous hypertension with edema, which may be relevant if the swelling is due to venous insufficiency.

Other and unspecified soft tissue disorders

Includes codes for soft tissue disorders, which may be used if the swelling is non-traumatic and of unclear etiology.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R60.0Localized edemaUse when swelling is isolated to the foot without systemic cause.
  • Documentation of laterality and specific location
  • Measurement comparison with contralateral limb
I87.1Chronic venous hypertension (idiopathic) with edemaUse when swelling is due to confirmed venous insufficiency.
  • Documented venous reflux on Doppler ultrasound

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 swelling of foot

Essential facts and insights about Swelling of Foot

The ICD-10 code for localized swelling of the foot is R60.0, used when the swelling is isolated to the foot without systemic cause.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for swelling of foot

Localized edema
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Swelling limited to one foot with no systemic symptoms.

Applicable To

  • Localized swelling of foot

Excludes

  • Generalized edema (R60.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of laterality and specific location
  • Measurement comparison with contralateral limb

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding generalized edema as localized

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and location to avoid miscoding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications

E11.9
Use if diabetic neuropathy contributes to the foot swelling.

Differential Codes

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

Generalized edema

R60.1
Use R60.1 if edema is systemic and not limited to the foot.

Localized edema

R60.0
Use R60.0 if no venous insufficiency is present.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Swelling of Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R60.0.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to incomplete clinical picture., Regulatory: May result in audit discrepancies., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document laterality in physical exam., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims or incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in audit findings and penalties., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of patient records and data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies whether edema is localized or generalized.

Impact

Using R60.1 instead of R60.0 without proper documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes between localized and generalized edema.

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 Swelling of Foot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Swelling of Foot

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Swelling of Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute foot swelling in a diabetic patient

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Laterality and specific location of swelling
  • Comparison with contralateral limb
  • Presence of pitting or non-pitting edema

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Swollen foot
Good Documentation Example
2+ pitting edema of left foot extending to medial malleolus, measured 3cm circumference increase vs contralateral limb.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the location, severity, and comparison, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Swelling of Foot? Ask your questions below.

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