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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM66.272

M66.272

Billable

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, left ankle and foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M66.272 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, left ankle and foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the left 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 can occur without any significant trauma or injury, often in individuals with underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or chronic tenosynovitis. The rupture may lead to pain, swelling, and functional impairment, making it difficult for the patient to walk or perform daily activities. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, and assessment of the patient's medical history. Treatment options may include conservative management with rest and immobilization, or surgical intervention to repair the ruptured tendon, depending on the severity of the rupture and the patient's overall health. Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength to the affected area.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of tendon anatomy and function
  • Differentiation from other tendon injuries
  • Need for precise documentation of spontaneous nature
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the spontaneous nature of the rupture
  • Failure to document co-existing conditions
  • Incorrect coding of the side affected
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with pain and swelling in the ankle after a sudden onset of symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any prior history of tendon issues or systemic diseases that may contribute to tendon weakness.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of underlying rheumatologic conditions and their impact on tendon health.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis presenting with tendon ruptures.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between systemic disease and tendon integrity.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M66.272 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the spontaneous nature of the rupture and any associated conditions
  • Include relevant clinical findings and imaging results to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M66.272 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28200CPT Code

Repair of ruptured tendon, extensor, foot

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair is performed for a spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must include pre-operative assessments and post-operative care plans.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M66.272 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M66.272 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M66.272 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

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 primary cause of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons?

The primary cause is often related to underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or chronic tenosynovitis, which weaken the tendons over time, leading to spontaneous rupture.