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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.922

M21.922

Billable

Unspecified acquired deformity of left upper arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.922 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified acquired deformity of left upper arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The ICD-10 code M21.922 refers to an unspecified acquired deformity of the left upper arm. Acquired deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or disease processes that alter the normal anatomy of the arm. These deformities may manifest as changes in bone structure, muscle atrophy, or abnormal joint positioning. Common examples include post-fracture malunion, contractures due to burns or immobilization, and deformities resulting from neurological conditions. The left upper arm specifically refers to the region between the shoulder and the elbow, and deformities in this area can significantly impact functionality and quality of life. Treatment often involves physical therapy, orthopedic interventions, or surgical correction, depending on the severity and nature of the deformity. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement, as well as for tracking outcomes in patients with upper extremity deformities.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of acquired deformities
  • Need for specificity in the description of the deformity
  • Potential overlap with congenital deformities
  • Differentiation from other upper arm conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Lack of clarity on whether the deformity is acquired or congenital
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers
  • Failure to document treatment plans or outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the deformity, treatment plans, and outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture deformities, post-surgical complications, and joint contractures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation specifies the nature of the deformity and any associated conditions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, treatment goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Focus on the impact of the deformity on function and quality of life.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.922 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the documentation supports the use of M21
  • documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.922 When
  • Exclude congenital deformities and ensure that the acquired nature of the deformity is well

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Osteotomy, humerus

Clinical Scenario

Used for correction of malunion in the left upper arm.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must clearly outline the deformity and rationale for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding acquired deformities, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding acquired deformities, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding acquired deformities, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

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 documentation is needed to support the use of M21.922?

Documentation should include a clear description of the deformity, its acquired nature, the cause, and any treatment plans or outcomes.