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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.861

M02.861

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, right knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.861 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, right knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that arise secondary to infections or other systemic diseases, often presenting with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The right knee, as a hinge joint, is particularly susceptible to these conditions due to its weight-bearing function and range of motion. Anatomically, the knee comprises the femur, tibia, fibula, and patella, with ligaments, tendons, and cartilage providing stability and mobility. Pathophysiologically, reactive arthropathies may occur following infections such as urethritis or gastroenteritis, leading to an immune-mediated response that affects the synovial membrane and joint structures. Clinically, patients may present with unilateral knee pain, effusion, and decreased range of motion, often exacerbated by activity. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other causes of arthritis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other types of arthritis
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Misclassification of reactive arthropathies as primary arthritis
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) to assess joint integrity and functional assessments to evaluate mobility and pain levels.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include post-infectious arthritis following a urinary tract infection or gastrointestinal infection, requiring surgical intervention if conservative management fails.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include assessing for ligamentous injuries or meniscal tears that may coexist with reactive arthropathies.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation must include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and disease activity assessments to monitor progression.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Autoimmune conditions such as reactive arthritis following Chlamydia infection, necessitating a comprehensive treatment plan.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement may require monitoring for extra-articular manifestations, such as skin or eye symptoms.

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-arthroscopy recovery or physical therapy for joint mobilization.

Billing Considerations

Mobility limitations should be documented, including the need for gait training or adaptive equipment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.861 When
  • Official coding guidelines require specificity in laterality (right knee), severity of the condition, and the type of encounter (initial, follow
  • up, etc
  • Accurate documentation of the clinical scenario is essential for appropriate coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.861 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 arthropathies.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the procedure, joint involved, and any findings during aspiration.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint 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 arthropathies?

Common causes include infections such as Chlamydia, gastrointestinal infections, and other systemic inflammatory conditions that trigger an immune response affecting the joints.