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 CodesD16.3

D16.3

Billable

Benign neoplasm of short bones of lower limb

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 D16.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign neoplasm of short bones of lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Benign neoplasms of the short bones of the lower limb, such as the tarsal bones, metatarsals, and phalanges, are non-cancerous growths that can arise from various tissues, including bone, cartilage, and fibrous tissue. These neoplasms may present as asymptomatic masses or may cause localized pain, swelling, or functional impairment depending on their size and location. Common types of benign neoplasms in this category include osteochondromas, enchondromas, and fibromas. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, which help differentiate benign lesions from malignant tumors. While benign, these neoplasms require monitoring due to the potential for growth or, in rare cases, transformation into malignant forms. Regular follow-up and imaging may be necessary to assess any changes in size or symptoms, ensuring timely intervention if needed. The management of benign neoplasms may involve observation, surgical excision, or other interventions based on the clinical scenario and patient symptoms.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from malignant neoplasms
  • Variability in presentation and symptoms
  • Need for imaging studies for accurate diagnosis
  • Potential for growth or transformation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to document follow-up imaging
  • Misclassification as malignant neoplasm
  • Lack of specificity in the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical excision of a benign bone tumor, monitoring of a growing lesion.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the tumor's characteristics and any changes over time.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Imaging reports detailing the characteristics of the neoplasm.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging studies to evaluate a suspected benign neoplasm.

Billing Considerations

Accurate description of imaging findings is crucial for proper coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D16.3 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis and any relevant imaging studies
  • Include details about the tumor's location and characteristics

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D16.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20680CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used when a benign neoplasm causes joint effusion.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation should include details of the neoplasm.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, 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 benign neoplasms, 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 benign neoplasms of the short bones?

Symptoms may include localized pain, swelling, or functional impairment, but many patients are asymptomatic.

How often should benign neoplasms be monitored?

Monitoring frequency depends on the size and symptoms of the neoplasm, typically every 6-12 months with imaging.