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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.511

M21.511

Billable

Acquired clawhand, right hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.511 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired clawhand, right hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired clawhand, also known as claw deformity, is characterized by a permanent flexion of the proximal interphalangeal joints and hyperextension of the distal interphalangeal joints of the fingers, resulting in a claw-like appearance. This condition can arise from various causes, including neurological disorders, trauma, or conditions that affect the muscles and tendons of the hand. In the right hand, this deformity can significantly impair hand function, affecting the ability to grasp or manipulate objects. The acquired nature of this condition distinguishes it from congenital clawhand, as it develops after birth due to external factors. Treatment often involves physical therapy, splinting, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore function. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation, as it can influence the choice of corrective procedures and the overall prognosis for recovery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital conditions
  • Understanding the underlying causes of the deformity
  • Identifying associated neurological or muscular disorders
  • Documenting the specific hand affected (right hand)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying cause
  • Failure to specify the affected hand
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans
  • Misclassification of acquired versus congenital conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed surgical notes, pre-operative and post-operative assessments, and rehabilitation plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical correction of clawhand deformity, management of associated fractures or injuries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the surgical approach and outcomes to support coding.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes, treatment plans, and functional assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgical correction or conservative management of clawhand.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and patient progress to justify therapy sessions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.511 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's acquired nature and the specific hand affected
  • Include any relevant comorbidities that may impact treatment

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.511 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

26340CPT Code

Tendon transfer, hand

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of clawhand deformity.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report and pre-operative assessment.

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 acquired conditions like clawhand, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired conditions like clawhand, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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 acquired clawhand?

Acquired clawhand can result from various conditions, including neurological disorders, trauma, or inflammatory diseases that affect the muscles and tendons of the hand.

How is acquired clawhand treated?

Treatment may include physical therapy, splinting, and surgical interventions such as tendon transfers or releases, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.