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 CodesM21.549

M21.549

Billable

Acquired clubfoot, unspecified foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.549 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired clubfoot, unspecified foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired clubfoot, also known as talipes equinovarus, is a deformity characterized by the foot being twisted out of shape or position. This condition can develop due to various factors, including neurological disorders, trauma, or other underlying health issues. Unlike congenital clubfoot, which is present at birth, acquired clubfoot typically manifests later in life and may be associated with conditions such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida. The foot may appear to be rotated inward and downward, leading to difficulties in ambulation and balance. Treatment often involves a combination of physical therapy, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore function. The severity of the condition can vary, and the specific foot affected may be unspecified in some cases, necessitating careful documentation to ensure accurate coding and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of the condition.
  • Need for precise documentation of the underlying cause of the acquired clubfoot.
  • Differentiation from congenital clubfoot and other foot deformities.
  • Potential for co-existing conditions that may complicate treatment and coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying cause of the acquired clubfoot.
  • Failure to specify the affected foot when applicable.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and outcomes.
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different providers.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with foot deformities, post-traumatic deformities, or neurological conditions affecting gait.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the specific type of clubfoot and any associated conditions.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing the patient's response to therapy, goals, and functional outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for foot deformities or post-surgical recovery.

Billing Considerations

Document specific interventions used and their effectiveness in improving function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.549 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M21
  • 549 should be used when the specific foot affected is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any underlying conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.549 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28200CPT Code

Tenotomy, Achilles tendon

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of acquired clubfoot.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document pre-operative assessments and post-operative 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 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

  • •
    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 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 conditions such as neurological disorders or trauma.