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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.221

M21.221

Billable

Flexion deformity, right elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.221 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, right elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the right elbow is characterized by a permanent bending of the elbow joint, resulting in limited extension and functional impairment. This condition can arise from various acquired causes, including trauma, neurological disorders, or inflammatory conditions. Patients may present with difficulty in fully extending the arm, which can affect daily activities and overall quality of life. The deformity may be associated with muscle imbalances, joint stiffness, and pain. Treatment options often include physical therapy, splinting, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore function. The condition can also lead to secondary complications such as joint degeneration or arthritis if left untreated. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between congenital and acquired deformities
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Need for detailed documentation of functional limitations
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting the elbow

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's impact on function
  • Failure to specify the laterality of the condition
  • Misclassification of the deformity as congenital
  • Lack of supporting evidence for surgical interventions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including range of motion assessments, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with post-traumatic elbow flexion deformities, those with neurological conditions affecting arm function.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly outline the functional limitations and any prior treatments attempted.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluations including functional assessments and therapy progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation of patients post-surgery or those with chronic conditions leading to elbow flexion deformity.

Billing Considerations

Focus on documenting improvements in range of motion and functional capabilities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.221 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding acquired deformities
  • Ensure accurate documentation of the condition's onset, severity, and impact on daily activities
  • Include any relevant co
  • morbidities

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.221 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24357CPT Code

Elbow arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

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

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and pre-operative assessments.

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 flexion deformity, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like flexion deformity, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 flexion deformity in the elbow?

Flexion deformity can result from trauma, neurological disorders, or inflammatory conditions that affect the muscles and joints around the elbow.