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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.15

M21.15

Billable

Varus deformity, not elsewhere classified, hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.15 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of varus deformity, not elsewhere classified, hip.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Varus deformity of the hip is characterized by an inward angulation of the femur at the hip joint, leading to a misalignment of the lower extremity. This condition can be acquired due to various factors, including trauma, degenerative joint disease, or post-surgical changes. Patients may present with symptoms such as hip pain, limited range of motion, and gait abnormalities. The deformity can lead to compensatory changes in the knee and ankle, potentially resulting in further musculoskeletal issues. Varus deformity is often associated with conditions like osteoarthritis or developmental dysplasia of the hip. Treatment options may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as osteotomy to correct the alignment. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (e.g., trauma, degenerative changes)
  • Need for detailed documentation of clinical findings and treatment plans
  • Differentiation from similar deformities (e.g., valgus deformity)
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's acquired nature
  • Failure to specify the severity of the deformity
  • Lack of supporting evidence for treatment decisions
  • Misclassification with congenital deformities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with hip pain and deformity, post-operative patients with alignment issues, and those with degenerative joint disease.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document the acquired nature of the deformity and any associated conditions that may affect treatment.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations, treatment goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

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

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.15 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding acquired deformities
  • Ensure to document the specific nature of the deformity and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.15 When
  • Exclude congenital deformities unless specified

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Osteotomy, femur

Clinical Scenario

Used for correction of varus deformity in the hip.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should 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 varus deformity, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

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 varus deformity in adults?

Varus deformity in adults is often acquired due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, trauma, or post-surgical changes that affect the alignment of the hip joint.