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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.622

M21.622

Billable

Bunionette of left foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.622 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of bunionette of left foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A bunionette, also known as a tailor's bunion, is a bony prominence that forms on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. This condition is characterized by the lateral deviation of the fifth toe, which can lead to pain, swelling, and discomfort, particularly when wearing tight shoes. Bunionettes are often acquired deformities resulting from various factors, including genetic predisposition, improper footwear, and biomechanical abnormalities. The condition can be exacerbated by activities that place excessive pressure on the lateral aspect of the foot, such as running or standing for prolonged periods. Patients may present with localized pain, redness, and tenderness over the affected area, and in some cases, the development of calluses or corns. Treatment options range from conservative measures, such as wearing wider shoes and using orthotic devices, to surgical interventions aimed at correcting the deformity and alleviating pain. Surgical procedures may include osteotomy, exostectomy, or soft tissue procedures to realign the toe and remove the bony prominence. Accurate coding of bunionette is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the severity and complexity of the condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other toe deformities like hallux valgus
  • Variability in surgical procedures and treatment options
  • Documentation of conservative versus surgical management
  • Potential for co-existing foot conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right)
  • Incorrect coding of associated conditions
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for surgical procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Podiatry

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with foot pain, deformities, or complications from bunionettes.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should clearly outline the impact of the bunionette on the patient's daily activities and footwear choices.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of foot structure, alignment, and any associated conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for bunionette correction or those with recurrent foot pain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that surgical indications and pre-operative evaluations are well-documented.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.622 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 622 should be used when the bunionette is specifically located on the left foot
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that any associated conditions are accurately captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.622 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28296CPT Code

Osteotomy, fifth metatarsal

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of a bunionette.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment, surgical notes, and post-operative follow-up.

Specialty Considerations

Podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons should document the rationale for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of bunionette conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of bunionette conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Podiatric Medical Association

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Podiatric Medical Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a bunion and a bunionette?

A bunion (hallux valgus) affects the big toe, while a bunionette (tailor's bunion) affects the little toe, causing a bony prominence on the outside of the foot.