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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.869

M02.869

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, unspecified knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.869 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, unspecified knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are a group of inflammatory joint conditions that occur secondary to infections or other inflammatory processes elsewhere in the body. The knee joint, a hinge joint formed by the femur, tibia, and patella, is commonly affected due to its weight-bearing function and mobility. In reactive arthropathies, the inflammation is not due to direct infection of the joint but rather a response to systemic conditions such as infections (e.g., urethritis, conjunctivitis) or autoimmune disorders. Clinically, patients may present with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly after an infection. The knee may exhibit limited range of motion, tenderness, and effusion. Diagnosis often involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other causes of arthritis. Treatment typically includes NSAIDs for pain relief, corticosteroids for inflammation, and physical therapy to restore function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes leading to reactive arthropathies
  • Need for differential diagnosis to rule out other arthritic conditions
  • Potential for systemic involvement complicating the clinical picture
  • Variability in clinical presentation and response to treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying cause of the reactive arthropathy
  • Failure to specify laterality of knee involvement
  • Insufficient detail on functional limitations and treatment response
  • Misclassification of reactive arthropathy as primary arthritis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) to assess joint integrity, functional assessments to evaluate range of motion, and any surgical interventions if applicable.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with knee pain following a recent infection, requiring evaluation for possible arthroscopic intervention if conservative management fails.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must detail the severity of joint involvement and any structural changes observed in imaging.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may have a history of reactive arthritis following a genitourinary infection, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation of joint symptoms and systemic involvement.

Billing Considerations

Rheumatologists must document any systemic symptoms and the impact on the patient's overall health status.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate mobility, strength, and endurance, along with rehabilitation goals and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may require physical therapy to regain knee function after an episode of reactive arthritis.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should focus on mobility limitations and the need for assistive devices during rehabilitation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.869 When
  • Coders must ensure accurate documentation of laterality (right, left, bilateral) and the severity of the condition
  • Encounter type (initial, subsequent, sequela) must also be documented appropriately to reflect the patient's treatment course

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.869 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 for knee joint effusion management in reactive arthropathy cases.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure, joint involved, and any findings during aspiration.

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 arthropathies?

Common causes include infections (e.g., genitourinary, gastrointestinal), autoimmune diseases, and post-infectious inflammatory responses. It is essential to identify the underlying cause to guide treatment.