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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM67.32

M67.32

Billable

Transient synovitis, elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M67.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of transient synovitis, elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Transient synovitis of the elbow is a benign inflammatory condition characterized by the temporary swelling of the synovial membrane surrounding the elbow joint. It is often seen in children and adolescents, typically presenting with acute pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected elbow. The etiology is often idiopathic, but it can be associated with trauma or infection. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI to assess joint effusion and rule out other conditions. Treatment usually involves conservative management, including rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In some cases, aspiration of the joint may be necessary to relieve symptoms. The condition is self-limiting, with most patients recovering fully within a few weeks. However, it is essential to monitor for potential complications, such as recurrent episodes or progression to chronic synovitis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating transient synovitis from septic arthritis
  • Need for imaging studies to confirm diagnosis
  • Variability in clinical presentation among different age groups
  • Potential for misdiagnosis with other elbow conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to document conservative treatment measures
  • Misclassification of the condition as chronic synovitis
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute elbow pain in a child following minor trauma.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and differential diagnosis of septic arthritis.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of joint function, imaging results, and treatment options.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of elbow pain in an adolescent athlete.

Billing Considerations

Assessment for potential overuse injuries or tendon involvement.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M67.32 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding synovial disorders
  • Ensure accurate documentation of the clinical presentation and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M67.32 When
  • Exclude codes for septic arthritis unless confirmed

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration of a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used when joint effusion is present and aspiration is performed.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for aspiration, findings, and post-procedure care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may perform this procedure more frequently.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of transient synovitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of transient synovitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 symptoms of transient synovitis?

Common symptoms include acute elbow pain, swelling, and limited range of motion, often following minor trauma or viral illness.