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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.151

M21.151

Billable

Varus deformity, not elsewhere classified, right hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.151 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of varus deformity, not elsewhere classified, right 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 that can affect gait and overall mobility. This condition may arise from various factors, including congenital issues, trauma, or degenerative diseases. In adults, acquired varus deformities can result from conditions such as osteoarthritis or post-fracture malunion. The right hip specifically indicates that the deformity is localized to that side, which may influence treatment options and rehabilitation strategies. Patients may present with symptoms such as pain, limited range of motion, and difficulty in weight-bearing activities. Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the alignment and restore function. Understanding the underlying cause of the varus deformity is crucial for effective management and to prevent further complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other hip deformities such as valgus deformity.
  • Need for precise documentation of laterality (right hip).
  • Potential for multiple underlying causes requiring thorough evaluation.
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on severity and patient age.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause.
  • Failure to specify laterality.
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis.
  • Misclassification with other deformities.

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 hip pain, limited mobility, or post-surgical evaluations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the deformity's impact on function and any associated conditions.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing functional assessments, treatment interventions, and patient responses.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgical correction of hip deformities or conservative management of varus deformity.

Billing Considerations

Document specific goals related to mobility and pain management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.151 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding musculoskeletal conditions
  • Ensure accurate documentation of the deformity's characteristics and associated symptoms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.151 When
  • Exclude conditions that are specifically classified elsewhere

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27130CPT Code

Total hip arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Performed for severe varus deformity of the hip causing significant pain and dysfunction.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment, imaging studies, and surgical notes detailing the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the deformity's impact on function.

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 patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like varus deformity, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 laterality in varus deformity coding?

Specifying laterality is crucial for accurate diagnosis coding, as it affects treatment decisions and reflects the specific anatomical site of the deformity.