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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.03

M02.03

Billable

Arthropathy following intestinal bypass, wrist

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of arthropathy following intestinal bypass, wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Arthropathy following intestinal bypass is a condition characterized by joint pain and dysfunction that arises as a complication of surgical procedures aimed at altering the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastric bypass. The wrist joint, which comprises the distal end of the radius and the proximal row of carpal bones, is particularly susceptible to arthropathy due to altered nutrient absorption and potential deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, notably vitamin D and calcium. Clinically, patients may present with pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the wrist, which can significantly impact daily activities. The pathophysiology often involves inflammatory processes and degenerative changes in the joint structures, leading to pain and functional limitations. The anatomical complexity of the wrist, with its intricate arrangement of bones, ligaments, and tendons, necessitates careful evaluation and management to prevent long-term disability.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Anatomical specificity of the wrist joint
  • Potential for multiple underlying causes of arthropathy
  • Need for detailed documentation of surgical history
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical history
  • Failure to specify laterality of wrist involvement
  • Lack of evidence for joint dysfunction severity
  • Misclassification of arthropathy type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) to assess joint integrity, functional assessments to evaluate range of motion, and detailed descriptions of any surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include post-operative complications leading to wrist pain, joint instability, or the need for surgical intervention such as arthroscopy.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include assessing for signs of instability, degenerative changes, and the impact of previous surgeries on wrist function.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity to evaluate the systemic impact of arthropathy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve patients with autoimmune conditions exacerbated by nutritional deficiencies post-bypass surgery.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic involvement and monitoring for potential progression of joint disease is critical.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should document mobility limitations, pain levels, and the need for assistive devices or rehabilitation services.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include post-surgical recovery, pain management, and restoration of wrist function.

Billing Considerations

Focus on mobility limitations and the impact on daily living activities is essential for comprehensive care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.03 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require specificity in laterality (right, left, bilateral) and severity of the arthropathy
  • Documentation must reflect the encounter type (initial, follow
  • up) and any relevant surgical history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.03 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used for therapeutic management of wrist arthropathy.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, the procedure performed, and the clinical rationale.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations include the need for imaging guidance in some cases.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of complications and outcomes related to surgical interventions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of complications and outcomes related to surgical interventions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Guidelines
  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Recommendations

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Guidelines
  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of wrist arthropathy following intestinal bypass?

Common causes include nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin D, calcium), inflammatory responses due to altered gut microbiota, and mechanical stress from compensatory movements post-surgery.