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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.862

M21.862

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of left lower leg

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.862 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of left lower leg.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired deformities of the left lower leg can arise from various conditions, including trauma, infections, or chronic diseases that lead to structural changes in the bones, joints, or soft tissues. These deformities may manifest as malalignment, shortening, or abnormal curvature of the leg. Common examples include post-traumatic deformities following fractures, conditions like Charcot foot, or deformities resulting from surgical interventions. The left lower leg encompasses the area from the knee to the ankle, and deformities in this region can significantly impact mobility and function. Patients may experience pain, instability, and difficulty in weight-bearing activities. Treatment options often involve physical therapy, orthotic devices, or surgical interventions aimed at correcting the deformity and restoring function. Accurate coding of these conditions is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement, necessitating detailed documentation of the deformity's nature, cause, and any associated symptoms.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (trauma, disease, etc.)
  • Need for precise documentation of deformity type and location
  • Differentiation from congenital deformities
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the deformity
  • Lack of clarity on associated symptoms or functional limitations
  • Misclassification of acquired vs. congenital deformities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture deformities, osteoarthritis-related changes, and surgical corrections.

Billing Considerations

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

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, treatment goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following corrective surgery or management of chronic deformities.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of the deformity on daily activities and rehabilitation outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.862 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the deformity is acquired and not congenital
  • Document the specific nature of the deformity and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.862 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27500CPT Code

Osteotomy, tibia, with or without fibula

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of deformities in the left lower leg.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must include pre-operative assessments and post-operative follow-ups.

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 diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes 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 types of conditions can lead to acquired deformities of the left lower leg?

Acquired deformities can result from trauma, infections, chronic diseases like arthritis, or complications from previous surgeries.