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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.93

M21.93

Billable

Unspecified acquired deformity of forearm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.93 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified acquired deformity of forearm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Unspecified acquired deformity of the forearm refers to a condition where the forearm has developed an abnormal shape or structure due to various factors, excluding congenital anomalies. These deformities can arise from trauma, infections, inflammatory conditions, or other acquired factors that alter the normal anatomy of the forearm. Common causes include fractures that heal improperly, repetitive stress injuries, or conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis that can lead to joint deformities. The forearm consists of two bones, the radius and the ulna, and deformities can affect one or both of these structures. Symptoms may include pain, reduced range of motion, and functional impairment, impacting daily activities. Treatment often involves physical therapy, bracing, or surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore function. Accurate diagnosis and documentation are crucial for effective treatment planning and coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of deformities
  • Need for detailed documentation to specify the acquired nature of the deformity
  • Differentiation from congenital deformities and other related conditions
  • Potential for multiple underlying causes requiring comprehensive evaluation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the acquired nature of the deformity
  • Lack of clarity on the specific anatomical site affected
  • Inadequate description of the underlying cause of the deformity
  • Failure to document the impact on function or daily activities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-traumatic deformities, malunion or nonunion of fractures, and degenerative changes.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states the acquired nature of the deformity and any previous treatments.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Document functional assessments and treatment progress to support the need for rehabilitation services.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.93 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the deformity is acquired and not congenital
  • Document the specific cause of the deformity when possible

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.93 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Osteotomy, forearm

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of acquired deformities.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must detail 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 more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of clinical data 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 clinical data 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 is the difference between congenital and acquired deformities?

Congenital deformities are present at birth due to genetic or environmental factors, while acquired deformities develop after birth due to injury, disease, or other external factors.