ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.251

M21.251

Billable

Flexion deformity, right hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.251 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, right hip.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the right hip is characterized by an abnormal bending of the hip joint, resulting in the inability to fully extend the leg. This condition can be acquired due to various factors, including trauma, neurological disorders, or prolonged immobilization. Patients may present with a noticeable flexed posture of the hip, which can lead to functional limitations, pain, and difficulty in ambulation. The deformity may be associated with other conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-surgical complications. Treatment often involves physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions to correct the deformity and restore normal function. In cases where the flexion deformity is severe, corrective procedures such as hip arthroplasty or osteotomy may be indicated to improve mobility and quality of life. Accurate coding of this condition is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of the deformity
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting the hip
  • Need for detailed documentation of functional limitations
  • Variations in treatment approaches and outcomes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's impact on function
  • Failure to document co-existing conditions
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans
  • Inconsistent coding of related procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the deformity's impact, treatment plans, and any surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with post-traumatic flexion deformities, degenerative joint disease, or post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the severity of the deformity and any associated functional limitations.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional status and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Focus on documenting the patient's progress and response to therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.251 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the deformity's nature and any associated conditions
  • Include details on the patient's functional limitations and treatment history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.251 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27130CPT Code

Total hip arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with severe flexion deformity requiring surgical correction.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the deformity and surgical approach.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery.

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 patient records 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 patient records 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 hip?

Flexion deformity in the hip can arise from various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or prolonged immobilization, leading to muscle shortening and joint contracture.