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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.219

M21.219

Billable

Flexion deformity, unspecified shoulder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.219 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, unspecified shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the shoulder refers to a condition where the shoulder joint is unable to extend fully due to a structural or functional abnormality. This deformity can be acquired through various means, including trauma, neurological conditions, or prolonged immobilization. Patients may present with limited range of motion, pain, and functional impairment, affecting daily activities. The condition can arise from conditions such as adhesive capsulitis, rotator cuff injuries, or post-surgical complications. Treatment options may include physical therapy, surgical interventions, or the use of orthotic devices to improve shoulder function. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, as the management strategies may differ based on the underlying cause of the flexion deformity. Documentation should include the duration of the deformity, associated symptoms, and any prior treatments attempted to provide a comprehensive view of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and underlying causes
  • Need for detailed documentation of functional limitations
  • Potential overlap with other shoulder conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches and outcomes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's impact on daily activities
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of the deformity
  • Misuse of unspecified codes leading to potential denials
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with limited shoulder mobility post-injury or surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any prior interventions and their outcomes.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, therapy progress notes, and patient-reported outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for shoulder flexion deformities.

Billing Considerations

Document the patient's functional goals and progress towards them.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.219 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the specific cause of the flexion deformity is not documented
  • Include any relevant clinical findings and treatment history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.219 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for shoulder flexion deformity.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must clearly outline the deformity and surgical rationale.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of shoulder conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning. M21.219 provides a means to capture flexion deformities that do not have a specified cause, which can aid in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of shoulder conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning. M21.219 provides a means to capture flexion deformities that do not have a specified cause, which can aid in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 difference between M21.219 and M21.218?

M21.219 is an unspecified code for flexion deformity of the shoulder, while M21.218 specifies a flexion deformity of the right shoulder. The choice of code depends on the documentation of laterality.