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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM22.0

M22.0

Billable

Recurrent dislocation of patella

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M22.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of recurrent dislocation of patella.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Recurrent dislocation of the patella is a condition characterized by the repeated displacement of the kneecap from its normal position in the femoral groove. This condition often results from a combination of anatomical factors, such as patellar malalignment, ligamentous laxity, and muscle imbalances. Patients typically present with episodes of knee instability, pain, and swelling, particularly during activities that involve bending or twisting the knee. The recurrent nature of this dislocation can lead to chronic pain and functional limitations, necessitating a thorough evaluation for associated internal derangements, such as meniscal tears or ligament injuries. Diagnosis is often confirmed through physical examination and imaging studies, including MRI, which can reveal associated injuries. Treatment options may include conservative management, such as physical therapy and bracing, or surgical interventions, including arthroscopic procedures to stabilize the patella and repair any concomitant injuries. Understanding the underlying causes and associated conditions is crucial for effective management and coding of this diagnosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in associated injuries (e.g., meniscal tears, ligament injuries)
  • Need for detailed documentation of recurrent episodes
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment
  • Variations in surgical interventions and their documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of recurrent episodes
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misclassification of dislocation type
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed surgical notes, imaging results, and pre-operative assessments are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for recurrent dislocation, management of associated ligament injuries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of the case, including any co-existing conditions.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing treatment plans, patient responses, and functional assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following patellar stabilization surgery, management of knee instability.

Billing Considerations

Document specific exercises and patient progress to support the need for therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M22.0 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for the ICD
  • CM, ensuring accurate documentation of the recurrent nature of the dislocation and any associated injuries
  • Include details on the treatment plan and any surgical procedures performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M22.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

29870CPT Code

Arthroscopy, knee, diagnostic, with or without synovial biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used for diagnostic evaluation of recurrent dislocation and associated injuries.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure comprehensive documentation of findings and treatment plans.

27420CPT Code

Reconstruction of ligament, knee, any type

Clinical Scenario

Performed for stabilization after recurrent dislocation.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report and post-operative care notes.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure clarity on the type of reconstruction performed.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of recurrent dislocation of the patella, 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 recurrent dislocation of the patella, 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 recurrent dislocation of the patella, 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 is the difference between M22.0 and M22.1?

M22.0 refers to recurrent dislocation of the patella, unilateral, while M22.1 refers to recurrent dislocation of the patella, bilateral. Accurate coding depends on the laterality of the condition.