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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.061

M21.061

Billable

Valgus deformity, not elsewhere classified, right knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.061 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of valgus deformity, not elsewhere classified, right knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Valgus deformity of the knee is characterized by an abnormal angulation of the knee joint, where the distal segment of the limb is angled away from the midline of the body. This condition can be acquired due to various factors such as trauma, degenerative joint disease, or conditions like osteoarthritis. The right knee specifically indicates that the deformity is localized to that joint. Patients may present with symptoms including pain, instability, and difficulty in ambulation. The deformity can lead to secondary complications such as joint degeneration and increased risk of injury. Treatment options may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as osteotomy or arthroplasty, depending on the severity of the deformity and associated symptoms. Accurate coding is essential for proper management and reimbursement, as it reflects the complexity of the condition and the necessity for potential corrective procedures.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other knee deformities
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation
  • Potential for co-existing conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's severity
  • Failure to specify the affected side
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for acquired deformity
  • Incorrect linkage to surgical procedures

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 knee pain and deformity, post-operative follow-ups for corrective procedures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the deformity type and any associated conditions.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing functional assessments and treatment interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgical correction of knee valgus deformity.

Billing Considerations

Document specific exercises and patient response to therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.061 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the condition is not classified elsewhere
  • Document the specific nature of the deformity and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.061 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Osteotomy, knee, medial or lateral

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 surgical intervention.

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 the accuracy of clinical data and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like valgus deformity, improving the accuracy of clinical data 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 is the significance of specifying the right knee in M21.061?

Specifying the right knee is crucial for accurate diagnosis coding, as treatment and management may differ based on the affected side.