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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.172

M02.172

Billable

Postdysenteric arthropathy, left ankle and foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.172 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of postdysenteric arthropathy, left ankle and foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Postdysenteric arthropathy is a type of reactive arthritis that occurs following an episode of dysentery, typically caused by bacterial infections such as Shigella or Salmonella. This condition primarily affects the joints, particularly in the lower extremities, including the left ankle and foot. The pathophysiology involves an immune-mediated response to the infection, leading to inflammation in the joints. Clinically, patients may present with swelling, pain, and stiffness in the affected joints, particularly after a gastrointestinal infection. Anatomically, the left ankle comprises the tibia, fibula, talus, and surrounding ligaments, while the foot includes multiple bones such as the metatarsals and phalanges. Movement limitations may include reduced range of motion and difficulty bearing weight on the affected limb. The condition can lead to chronic joint damage if not properly managed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of post-infectious arthropathies
  • Involves specific anatomical localization (left ankle and foot)
  • Differentiation from other types of arthritis
  • Potential for chronicity and complications

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior dysentery
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Misclassification as another type of arthritis
  • Lack of evidence for joint involvement

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) to assess joint integrity and functional assessments to evaluate range of motion and strength.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include surgical interventions for joint repair or arthroscopy to address joint damage.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include assessing for any structural damage or deformities in the left ankle and foot.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammation markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve managing systemic involvement or coexisting autoimmune conditions.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic symptoms and potential progression to chronic arthritis is crucial.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should document mobility limitations, pain levels, and rehabilitation needs.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include physical therapy to restore function and mobility.

Billing Considerations

Assessment of assistive device needs and home modifications for mobility support.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.172 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require accurate documentation of laterality (left ankle and foot), severity of the condition, and the type of encounter (initial, subsequent, or sequela)

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.172 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 joint swelling and pain management in postdysenteric arthropathy.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the joint involved, indication for the procedure, and any imaging studies performed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations include assessing joint stability and potential need for further intervention.

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 post-infectious arthropathies and their management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of post-infectious arthropathies and their management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of post-infectious arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What is postdysenteric arthropathy?

Postdysenteric arthropathy is a reactive arthritis that occurs following a dysentery episode, characterized by joint inflammation, particularly in the lower extremities, and is often associated with a history of gastrointestinal infection.