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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.231

M21.231

Billable

Flexion deformity, right wrist

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.231 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, right wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the wrist is characterized by an abnormal bending of the wrist joint, resulting in the inability to fully extend the wrist. This condition can arise from various acquired factors, including trauma, arthritis, or neurological conditions that affect muscle control. The flexion deformity can lead to functional limitations, impacting daily activities such as grasping objects or performing fine motor tasks. In cases where the deformity is severe, it may necessitate surgical intervention to restore function and alleviate pain. The right wrist is specifically noted in this code, indicating that the deformity is unilateral, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Understanding the underlying cause of the flexion deformity is essential for effective management, as it may involve a multidisciplinary approach including physical therapy, orthotic support, and possibly surgical correction.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between congenital and acquired deformities
  • Identifying the underlying cause of the deformity
  • Documenting the severity and impact on function
  • Potential need for surgical coding if corrective procedures are performed

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's impact on function
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Lack of supporting evidence for the underlying cause
  • Incorrect coding of associated conditions or procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with wrist pain, limited range of motion, or post-surgical follow-up for wrist deformities.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant surgical procedures are documented if corrective surgery is performed.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Therapy notes detailing the patient's functional limitations and progress over time.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for wrist flexion deformities post-injury or surgery.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and patient responses to treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.231 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 231 should be used when the flexion deformity is specifically noted as affecting the right wrist
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis, including the cause and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.231 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Wrist arthrodesis

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical correction of the flexion deformity is necessary.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

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 flexion deformities, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like flexion deformities, improving the accuracy of data collection 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 primary cause of flexion deformity in the wrist?

Flexion deformity can be caused by various factors, including trauma, arthritis, or neurological conditions that affect muscle control and joint stability.