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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.54

M21.54

Billable

Acquired clubfoot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.54 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired clubfoot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired clubfoot, also known as acquired talipes equinovarus, is a deformity characterized by the foot being twisted out of shape or position. Unlike congenital clubfoot, which is present at birth, acquired clubfoot develops later in life due to various factors such as trauma, neurological conditions, or underlying musculoskeletal disorders. The condition typically presents with the foot being plantarflexed, inverted, and adducted, leading to difficulties in ambulation and potential pain. Treatment often involves a combination of physical therapy, orthotic devices, and surgical interventions aimed at correcting the deformity and restoring functional mobility. Surgical options may include tendon lengthening, osteotomy, or arthrodesis, depending on the severity of the deformity and the patient's overall health. Accurate diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial to prevent long-term disability and improve quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between congenital and acquired forms of clubfoot.
  • Understanding the underlying causes leading to acquired clubfoot.
  • Documenting the severity and functional impact of the deformity.
  • Identifying appropriate treatment modalities and their indications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the acquired nature of the deformity.
  • Failure to document associated conditions or comorbidities.
  • Lack of clarity on the treatment plan and interventions performed.
  • Misclassification of the condition as congenital clubfoot.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with foot deformities due to trauma or neurological disorders.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document the specific type of acquired clubfoot and any associated procedures performed.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing the patient's response to therapy and functional improvements.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery for clubfoot correction.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and their outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.54 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 54 should be used when the clubfoot is acquired and not congenital
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any associated conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.54 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28200CPT Code

Tenotomy, percutaneous, Achilles tendon

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of acquired clubfoot.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired clubfoot, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired clubfoot, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired clubfoot, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between congenital and acquired clubfoot?

Congenital clubfoot is present at birth and is typically due to genetic factors, while acquired clubfoot develops later in life due to trauma, neurological conditions, or other underlying issues.