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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.829

M02.829

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, unspecified elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.829 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, unspecified elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that arise secondary to infections or other systemic diseases, often presenting with joint pain and swelling. The elbow joint, a hinge joint formed by the humerus, radius, and ulna, allows for flexion and extension, as well as limited rotation. In cases of reactive arthropathy, the inflammation can lead to synovitis, joint effusion, and pain, which may restrict movement and function. Clinically, patients may present with acute onset of elbow pain, tenderness, and swelling, often following a preceding infection or inflammatory condition. The pathophysiology involves immune-mediated responses that target joint tissues, leading to inflammation and potential joint damage if untreated. Diagnosis typically requires a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other causes of elbow pain.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes leading to reactive arthropathy.
  • Need for differential diagnosis to exclude other arthropathies.
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other musculoskeletal conditions.
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior infections or systemic conditions.
  • Failure to specify laterality or severity of the condition.
  • Lack of imaging or laboratory results to support the diagnosis.
  • Misclassification of the condition due to overlapping symptoms.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include post-infectious arthritis following a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, requiring surgical intervention for joint debridement in severe cases.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include documenting the extent of joint effusion and any associated ligamentous injuries.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity to monitor progression.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve patients with a history of autoimmune diseases presenting with acute elbow pain, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement should be documented, especially if there are signs of polyarthritis or extra-articular manifestations.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate the patient's ability to perform daily activities and any need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include post-therapy evaluations for range of motion and strength following treatment for reactive arthropathy.

Billing Considerations

Mobility limitations should be documented, particularly if the patient requires modifications in their rehabilitation program.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.829 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines that require documentation of laterality (right, left, bilateral) and severity (acute, chronic) of the condition
  • Ensure that the encounter type (initial, follow
  • up) is clearly documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.829 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 effusion management in reactive arthropathy.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, amount of fluid aspirated, and any therapeutic agents injected.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint health and inflammation management.

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 reactive 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 reactive 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 reactive arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of reactive arthropathy?

Common causes include infections (e.g., viral, bacterial), autoimmune diseases, and post-infectious inflammatory responses. It is essential to document any recent infections or systemic conditions that may contribute to the development of reactive arthropathy.