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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.262

M21.262

Billable

Flexion deformity, left knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.262 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, left knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the left knee refers to a condition where the knee joint is unable to fully extend, resulting in a fixed angle of flexion. This acquired deformity can arise from various causes, including trauma, degenerative joint disease, or neurological conditions. Patients may experience pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty in performing daily activities such as walking or climbing stairs. The condition can lead to compensatory changes in gait and posture, potentially resulting in secondary musculoskeletal issues. Treatment options may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as osteotomy or arthroplasty, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the deformity. Accurate diagnosis and documentation are crucial for effective management and coding, as the degree of flexion and associated symptoms can significantly influence treatment decisions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of the degree of flexion
  • Differentiation from other knee deformities
  • Need for comprehensive clinical history
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting the knee

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the degree of flexion
  • Failure to document the underlying cause of the deformity
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans
  • Inconsistent use of terminology in clinical notes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-operative follow-up for knee surgeries, management of degenerative joint disease.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in documenting the functional impact of the deformity on the patient's daily activities.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of functional limitations, rehabilitation goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following knee surgery or injury, management of chronic knee pain.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the patient's response to therapy and any modifications to the treatment plan.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.262 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding acquired deformities
  • Ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis, including the cause and severity of the flexion deformity

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.262 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Total knee arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with severe knee deformities requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessments, 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 knee deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M21.262 provides a clear distinction between left and right knee conditions, enhancing data collection and analysis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of knee deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M21.262 provides a clear distinction between left and right knee conditions, enhancing data collection and analysis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of knee deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M21.262 provides a clear distinction between left and right knee conditions, enhancing data collection and analysis.

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 significance of documenting the degree of flexion?

Documenting the degree of flexion is crucial for determining the severity of the deformity, guiding treatment decisions, and supporting the medical necessity for interventions.