ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.252

M21.252

Billable

Flexion deformity, left hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.252 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, left hip.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the left hip refers to a condition where the hip joint is unable to extend fully, resulting in a fixed position of flexion. This acquired deformity can arise from various causes, including trauma, neurological conditions, or prolonged immobilization. Patients may experience pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty in performing daily activities. The condition can lead to compensatory mechanisms in gait and posture, potentially resulting in secondary musculoskeletal issues. Treatment often involves physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions to correct the deformity and restore function. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation. In cases where the flexion deformity is associated with other conditions, such as hallux valgus or other toe abnormalities, a comprehensive approach to treatment is necessary to address all contributing factors.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital deformities
  • Understanding the specific anatomical implications of the left hip
  • Identifying associated conditions that may complicate coding
  • Navigating the documentation requirements for surgical interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the cause of the deformity
  • Failure to specify laterality in the diagnosis
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for surgical procedures
  • Misclassification of the deformity as congenital rather than acquired

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with hip pain, limited range of motion, or post-surgical evaluations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical interventions are documented with pre-operative and post-operative assessments.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery or those with chronic pain due to hip deformities.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of the deformity on daily activities and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.252 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M21
  • 252 should be used when the flexion deformity is specifically documented as affecting the left hip
  • Coders must ensure that the condition is acquired and not congenital, and that it is supported by clinical documentation

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.252 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27130CPT Code

Total hip arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with severe flexion deformity requiring surgical correction.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment, surgical notes, and post-operative follow-up.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery and expected 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 deformities, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

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 left hip?

Flexion deformity can result from various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or prolonged immobilization. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment.