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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.071

M21.071

Billable

Valgus deformity, not elsewhere classified, right ankle

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.071 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of valgus deformity, not elsewhere classified, right ankle.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Valgus deformity of the right ankle is characterized by an abnormal angulation of the ankle joint, where the foot deviates laterally away from the midline of the body. This condition can be acquired due to various factors, including trauma, arthritis, or repetitive stress injuries. It may lead to pain, instability, and difficulty in ambulation. The deformity can also affect the alignment of the toes, potentially leading to secondary conditions such as hallux valgus, where the big toe deviates towards the second toe. Treatment options may include conservative measures such as orthotics, physical therapy, and pain management, or surgical interventions to correct the alignment and restore function. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the prevalence of this condition in the population.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital deformities
  • Identifying the specific location and laterality of the deformity
  • Understanding the relationship with other foot deformities like hallux valgus
  • Documenting the underlying causes or contributing factors

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Misclassification of the deformity type (acquired vs. congenital)
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis

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 ankle pain, instability, or deformity following trauma or chronic conditions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any prior treatments or surgeries related to the deformity.

Podiatry

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive foot assessments, including gait analysis and shoe wear patterns.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with foot pain due to misalignment or deformities affecting daily activities.

Billing Considerations

Document any conservative management strategies attempted before surgical intervention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.071 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 071 should be used when the valgus deformity is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that it accurately reflects the patient's condition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.071 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28300CPT Code

Osteotomy, metatarsal, for hallux valgus

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical correction of the valgus deformity is performed.

Documentation Requirements

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

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 M21.071, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M21.071, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M21.071, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

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 primary cause of a valgus deformity?

Valgus deformities can be caused by a variety of factors including trauma, arthritis, or repetitive stress injuries that alter the normal alignment of the ankle.