Acquired clawhand, left hand
ICD-10 M21.512 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired clawhand, left hand.
Acquired clawhand, also known as claw hand deformity, is characterized by a specific hand posture where the fingers are flexed at the metacarpophalangeal joints and extended at the interphalangeal joints, resembling a claw. This condition typically arises from neurological or muscular disorders that affect the intrinsic muscles of the hand, leading to an imbalance between the flexor and extensor muscles. Common causes include trauma, stroke, or conditions such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy. The left hand is specifically affected in this code, indicating the need for targeted treatment and rehabilitation strategies. Patients may experience difficulties with grip strength, fine motor skills, and overall hand function, impacting daily activities. Treatment often involves physical therapy, splinting, and in some cases, surgical intervention to restore function and improve aesthetics. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management and coding accuracy.
Detailed surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative care plans.
Surgical correction of clawhand deformity, management of associated fractures.
Ensure clear documentation of the surgical approach and any complications.
Therapy progress notes, functional assessments, and patient-reported outcomes.
Rehabilitation following surgery or conservative management of clawhand.
Document specific therapy techniques used and patient response to treatment.
Used in surgical correction of clawhand deformity.
Detailed operative report and post-operative care notes.
Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention.
Acquired clawhand is primarily caused by neurological or muscular disorders that disrupt the normal function of the hand's intrinsic muscles.
