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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.831

M02.831

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, right wrist

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.831 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, right wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that arise secondary to infections or other systemic diseases, often presenting with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The right wrist, comprising the distal radius, ulna, and eight carpal bones, is a complex structure that allows for a wide range of motion. In cases of reactive arthropathy, the inflammation can lead to synovitis, affecting the wrist's function and causing pain during movement. Clinically, patients may present with acute or subacute onset of symptoms, often following a preceding infection or inflammatory condition. The pathophysiology involves immune-mediated mechanisms where the body's immune response mistakenly targets joint tissues, leading to inflammation and potential joint damage if untreated. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions. Treatment may include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and physical therapy to manage symptoms and restore function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of joint anatomy and function
  • Differentiation from other arthropathies
  • Need for precise documentation of laterality
  • Potential for systemic involvement

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior infections or triggers
  • Failure to specify laterality correctly
  • Lack of detailed clinical findings in the medical record
  • Misclassification of the type of arthropathy

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) to assess joint integrity and functional assessments to evaluate range of motion and strength.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with acute wrist pain following a recent infection, requiring evaluation for possible surgical intervention if conservative measures fail.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the severity of joint involvement and any associated ligamentous injuries is crucial for treatment planning.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may have a history of autoimmune diseases that complicate the presentation of reactive arthropathy.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement should be documented, especially if there are signs of other organ involvement.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate the patient's ability to perform daily activities and any need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include post-infection recovery where the patient requires therapy to regain wrist function.

Billing Considerations

Mobility limitations should be documented to tailor rehabilitation programs effectively.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.831 When
  • 10 guidelines require accurate documentation of laterality (right wrist), severity of symptoms, and the type of encounter (initial, follow
  • Ensure that the clinical rationale for the diagnosis is well
  • documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.831 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

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

Clinical Scenario

Used when joint effusion is present and requires drainage or injection for treatment.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, the procedure performed, and the indication for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint management.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of reactive arthropathies and their management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of reactive arthropathies and their management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of reactive arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of reactive arthropathy?

Common causes include infections (e.g., gastrointestinal, genitourinary), autoimmune conditions, and post-viral syndromes. The immune response to these triggers can lead to joint inflammation.