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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.122

M21.122

Billable

Varus deformity, not elsewhere classified, left elbow

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.122 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of varus deformity, not elsewhere classified, left elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Varus deformity of the elbow refers to an abnormal angulation of the elbow joint where the forearm deviates inward relative to the upper arm. This condition can be acquired due to various factors, including trauma, arthritis, or repetitive stress injuries. The left elbow is specifically affected in this code, which may lead to functional limitations, pain, and decreased range of motion. Patients may present with symptoms such as discomfort during activities that require elbow flexion or extension, and they may exhibit a noticeable deformity. Treatment options often include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions to correct the alignment and restore function. Understanding the underlying causes of the varus deformity is crucial for effective management and coding, as it may relate to other conditions such as osteoarthritis or post-traumatic changes. Accurate documentation of the patient's history, physical examination findings, and any imaging studies is essential for proper coding and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between congenital and acquired deformities
  • Variability in documentation standards across specialties
  • Potential overlap with other elbow deformities (e.g., valgus deformity)
  • Need for detailed clinical history to establish the cause

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right)
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis
  • Misclassification of the deformity type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with elbow pain, limited range of motion, or post-traumatic deformities.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any previous surgeries or treatments that may have contributed to the deformity.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments including functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery or those with chronic pain related to elbow deformities.

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and the impact of the deformity on daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.122 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 122 should be used when the varus deformity is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the deformity is not a result of a more specific condition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.122 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24357CPT Code

Osteotomy, elbow

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical correction of the varus deformity is necessary.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like varus deformity, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in tracking the prevalence and treatment outcomes of such deformities.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like varus deformity, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in tracking the prevalence and treatment outcomes of such deformities.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in tracking the prevalence and treatment outcomes of such deformities.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of varus deformity in the elbow?

Varus deformity can be caused by various factors including trauma, degenerative joint diseases, or repetitive stress injuries. It is important to assess the patient's history to determine the underlying cause.