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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM66.27

M66.27

Billable

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, ankle and foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M66.27 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, ankle and foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the ankle and foot is a condition characterized by the unexpected tearing of the extensor tendons, which are responsible for extending the toes and lifting the foot. This condition often occurs without any preceding trauma or injury, making it particularly challenging to diagnose. Patients may present with sudden pain, swelling, and loss of function in the affected area. The extensor tendons are crucial for normal foot mechanics, and their rupture can lead to significant functional impairment. The condition may be associated with underlying synovial disorders or tenosynovitis, which can weaken the tendons over time. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, to confirm the rupture. Treatment options may include conservative management with rest and immobilization or surgical intervention to repair the torn tendon, depending on the severity of the rupture and the patient's functional needs.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between spontaneous and traumatic ruptures
  • Understanding the anatomical location of the extensor tendons
  • Identifying associated conditions like tenosynovitis
  • Documenting the severity and functional impact of the rupture

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the exact tendon involved
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis
  • Improper coding of associated conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute pain and swelling in the ankle or foot, often after a sudden movement.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states whether the rupture was spontaneous or due to an underlying condition.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients recovering from tendon repair surgery requiring rehabilitation services.

Billing Considerations

Document the patient's progress and any complications during rehabilitation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M66.27 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's onset, severity, and any associated diagnoses
  • Include any relevant imaging studies and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M66.27 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27301CPT Code

Repair of tendon, extensor, ankle and foot

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair is performed for a spontaneous rupture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure clear documentation of the tendon repaired.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon ruptures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M66.27 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures, which aids in clinical research and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon ruptures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M66.27 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures, which aids in clinical research and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M66.27 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures, which aids in clinical research and 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 are the common causes of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons?

Common causes include chronic inflammatory conditions, degenerative changes in the tendon, and systemic diseases that weaken tendon integrity.