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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.232

M21.232

Billable

Flexion deformity, left wrist

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.232 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, left wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the left wrist refers to a condition where the wrist is bent in a flexed position, limiting the extension of the wrist joint. This acquired deformity can result from various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Patients may experience pain, reduced range of motion, and functional limitations in daily activities. The condition can lead to secondary complications, including muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. Treatment options often include physical therapy, splinting, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore function. Accurate diagnosis and documentation are crucial for effective management and coding, as the underlying cause of the deformity can significantly influence treatment decisions and outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital deformities
  • Identifying the underlying cause of the flexion deformity
  • Documenting associated conditions or complications
  • Understanding the impact of the deformity on function and mobility

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the cause of the deformity
  • Failure to specify laterality (left wrist)
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis
  • Incorrect coding of associated conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with post-traumatic wrist deformities, arthritis-related deformities, or congenital conditions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document the functional limitations and any prior treatments attempted.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional status and treatment goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for wrist flexion deformities post-surgery or injury.

Billing Considerations

Focus on documenting the impact on daily living activities and rehabilitation progress.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.232 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding acquired deformities
  • Ensure to document the specific cause of the flexion deformity and any associated conditions
  • Use additional codes to capture related diagnoses if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.232 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Wrist arthrodesis

Clinical Scenario

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

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document pre-operative assessments and post-operative outcomes.

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 facilitating better treatment planning.

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 facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

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 wrist?

Flexion deformity can be caused by various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.