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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.029

M21.029

Billable

Valgus deformity, not elsewhere classified, unspecified elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.029 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of valgus deformity, not elsewhere classified, unspecified elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Valgus deformity of the elbow is characterized by an abnormal angulation of the forearm in relation to the upper arm, resulting in an outward deviation of the forearm. This condition can be acquired due to various factors, including trauma, repetitive stress, or degenerative changes. Patients may present with symptoms such as pain, limited range of motion, and functional impairment. The condition is often associated with other deformities, such as hallux valgus in the feet, where the big toe deviates laterally. Corrective procedures may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as osteotomy to realign the joint. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the prevalence of this condition in the population. Documentation should detail the onset, duration, and impact of the deformity on the patient's daily activities to support the diagnosis and any associated procedures.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of the deformity
  • Potential overlap with other musculoskeletal conditions
  • Need for detailed documentation to support the diagnosis
  • Variations in treatment approaches and their coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's impact on function
  • Failure to specify whether the condition is acquired or congenital
  • Misclassification with other joint deformities
  • Lack of supporting evidence for surgical interventions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with elbow pain and deformity after trauma or chronic overuse.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any previous treatments or interventions that may affect the current condition.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring rehabilitation post-surgery or those with chronic pain due to valgus deformity.

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and the impact of the deformity on daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.029 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics
  • Include details on whether the deformity is acquired or congenital, and document any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.029 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24357CPT Code

Osteotomy, elbow

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of valgus deformity.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment, surgical notes, and post-operative follow-up.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery and expected outcomes.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like valgus deformity, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like valgus deformity, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 difference between M21.029 and M21.01?

M21.029 is used for unspecified valgus deformity of the elbow, while M21.01 refers specifically to valgus deformity of the knee.