ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.941

M21.941

Billable

Unspecified acquired deformity of hand, right hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.941 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified acquired deformity of hand, right hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.941 refers to an unspecified acquired deformity of the right hand, which can arise from various causes such as trauma, infection, or degenerative diseases. Acquired deformities may manifest as changes in the shape or structure of the hand, affecting functionality and aesthetics. Common examples include conditions resulting from fractures that heal improperly, tendon injuries, or inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. These deformities can lead to limitations in hand movement, grip strength, and overall dexterity. The right hand is often more affected in right-handed individuals, leading to significant impacts on daily activities and quality of life. Treatment options may include physical therapy, splinting, or surgical interventions aimed at restoring function and appearance. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement, necessitating thorough documentation of the underlying cause and the specific nature of the deformity.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and underlying causes
  • Need for detailed documentation to specify the nature of the deformity
  • Potential overlap with other hand deformity codes
  • Variations in treatment approaches based on the cause

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Inconsistent coding of associated conditions
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports and pre-operative assessments are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-traumatic deformities, degenerative joint disease, and surgical corrections.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the specific nature of the deformity and any corrective procedures performed.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing functional assessments and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgery or injury leading to deformity.

Billing Considerations

Document improvements in range of motion and strength to support coding for therapy services.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.941 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding acquired deformities, ensuring to document the cause and specific characteristics of the deformity

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.941 When
  • Exclude congenital deformities and ensure accurate laterality is noted

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

26145CPT Code

Excision of bone cyst or tumor, hand or wrist

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with an acquired deformity requires surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure clear documentation of the deformity's impact on function.

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 facilitating better treatment planning.

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 facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 M21.941?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the deformity, its cause, any associated conditions, and the treatment plan. Imaging studies and clinical assessments should also be included.