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 CodesM21.952

M21.952

Billable

Unspecified acquired deformity of left thigh

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.952 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified acquired deformity of left thigh.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified acquired deformity of the left thigh refers to a structural abnormality that has developed in the thigh region due to various factors such as trauma, disease, or other medical conditions. These deformities can manifest as changes in bone structure, muscle atrophy, or alterations in joint alignment. Common causes include previous fractures that have healed improperly, infections, tumors, or conditions like osteoarthritis that can lead to deformity over time. The left thigh, being a significant weight-bearing area, can experience functional limitations due to these deformities, impacting mobility and quality of life. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs, and a detailed patient history to ascertain the underlying cause. Treatment may vary widely, from conservative management with physical therapy to surgical interventions aimed at correcting the deformity and restoring function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of acquired deformities
  • Need for precise clinical details to differentiate from congenital deformities
  • Potential overlap with other musculoskeletal codes
  • Variations in treatment approaches affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Inconsistent use of the code across different providers
  • Failure to document the impact on function
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture deformities, osteoarthritis-related changes, and post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the deformity's impact on mobility and function to support the necessity of interventions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments including functional limitations, treatment goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and the impact of the deformity on daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.952 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, this code should be used when the specific nature of the acquired deformity is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the use of this unspecified code and consider more specific codes if available

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.952 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Osteotomy, femur

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of acquired deformities of the thigh.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should provide comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative documentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specificity in coding, but the use of unspecified codes like M21.952 can lead to challenges in capturing the full clinical picture, potentially impacting reimbursement and care quality.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specificity in coding, but the use of unspecified codes like M21.952 can lead to challenges in capturing the full clinical picture, potentially impacting reimbursement and care quality.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and care quality.

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 should I document to support the use of M21.952?

Document the patient's history, the nature of the deformity, any imaging studies performed, and the impact on function. Ensure that the documentation clearly indicates that the deformity is acquired and not congenital.