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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.839

M21.839

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of unspecified forearm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.839 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of unspecified forearm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.839 refers to acquired deformities of the forearm that are not classified elsewhere. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or underlying medical conditions. Acquired deformities may manifest as changes in bone structure, joint alignment, or soft tissue configuration, leading to functional impairment or aesthetic concerns. Common examples include malunion or nonunion of fractures, post-surgical changes, or deformities resulting from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The forearm consists of two long bones, the radius and ulna, and deformities can affect either or both, impacting wrist and elbow function. Treatment often involves physical therapy, orthotic devices, or surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore function. Accurate coding is essential for proper 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 detailed clinical documentation to specify the nature of the deformity
  • Differentiation from congenital deformities and other acquired conditions
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions affecting the forearm

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify the affected side (left, right, or bilateral)
  • Inadequate detail on treatment plans or outcomes
  • Misclassification of congenital versus acquired deformities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture deformities, surgical corrections, and joint replacements.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity on the type of deformity and any associated conditions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following corrective surgery or trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and goals for therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.839 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding acquired deformities, ensuring specificity in documentation
  • Include details on the cause, affected side, and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.839 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Osteotomy, forearm

Clinical Scenario

Used for correcting malalignment in acquired deformities.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must specify the type of deformity.

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.

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.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 are included under M21.839?

M21.839 includes various acquired deformities of the forearm that do not fall under more specific categories, such as malunions, nonunions, or deformities resulting from trauma or surgery.