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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.829

M21.829

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of unspecified upper arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.829 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of unspecified upper arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.829 refers to acquired deformities of the upper arm that are not classified elsewhere. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgical interventions, or conditions that lead to structural changes in the arm. Common examples include post-fracture malunion, where the bone heals in an abnormal position, or deformities resulting from conditions such as arthritis or neuromuscular disorders. The upper arm's anatomy includes the humerus and surrounding soft tissues, and deformities can affect function, range of motion, and aesthetics. Treatment often involves physical therapy, orthotic devices, or surgical correction, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the deformity. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes for deformities
  • Need for precise documentation of the deformity's nature and origin
  • Differentiation from congenital deformities and other acquired conditions
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions affecting the upper arm

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Inconsistent terminology used in clinical notes
  • Failure to document the treatment plan and outcomes
  • Lack of clarity regarding the functional impact of the deformity

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the deformity, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-traumatic deformities, post-surgical complications, and degenerative changes.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging and surgical notes are included to support the diagnosis.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, therapy notes, and progress reports.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following trauma or surgery, management of chronic pain related to deformities.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of the deformity on daily activities and quality of life.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.829 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 829 should be used when the specific deformity is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and that it is not used inappropriately for congenital deformities

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.829 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Repair of shoulder dislocation

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with an acquired deformity undergoes surgical correction.

Documentation Requirements

Operative notes detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must clearly link the procedure to the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes. M21.829 provides a means to capture cases that do not fit neatly into other categories, ensuring that all patients receive appropriate care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes. M21.829 provides a means to capture cases that do not fit neatly into other categories, ensuring that all patients receive appropriate care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M21.829 provides a means to capture cases that do not fit neatly into other categories, ensuring that all patients receive appropriate care.

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 types of conditions can M21.829 be used for?

M21.829 can be used for various acquired deformities of the upper arm, including those resulting from trauma, surgery, or degenerative conditions.