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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM05.631

M05.631

Billable

Rheumatoid arthritis of right wrist with involvement of other organs and systems

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M05.631 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis of right wrist with involvement of other organs and systems.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder characterized by synovial inflammation and joint destruction. The right wrist, comprising the distal radius, ulna, carpal bones, and associated ligaments, is commonly affected in RA. The pathophysiology involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the synovial membrane, leading to swelling, pain, and eventual joint damage. Clinically, patients may present with morning stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the wrist. Systemic involvement can include manifestations in the lungs, heart, and skin, complicating the clinical picture and necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Involvement of multiple organ systems complicates diagnosis and treatment.
  • Need for precise documentation of joint involvement and systemic effects.
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients.
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other rheumatologic conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of systemic involvement.
  • Failure to specify laterality and joint involvement.
  • Misclassification of RA severity.
  • Lack of supporting evidence for treatment decisions.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may require surgical intervention for joint deformities or severe pain management.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should detail the specific joints involved and the severity of any deformities.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation must include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity (e.g., DAS28).

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of RA flares and monitoring for systemic complications such as interstitial lung disease.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the extent of systemic involvement is crucial for treatment planning.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate mobility, pain levels, and the need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation programs focusing on improving joint function and reducing pain.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of mobility limitations and the impact on daily activities is essential.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M05.631 When
  • 10 guidelines require specificity in coding laterality (right wrist), severity, and the presence of systemic involvement
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M05.631 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 RA patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, indication for the procedure, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint health and 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 disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key documentation requirements for coding rheumatoid arthritis?

Key documentation includes specific joint involvement, systemic manifestations, laboratory results, and treatment plans. Clear notes on the patient's functional status and any changes in condition are also essential.