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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.269

M21.269

Billable

Flexion deformity, unspecified knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.269 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, unspecified knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the knee is characterized by an abnormal bending of the knee joint, resulting in a reduced ability to extend the leg fully. This condition can arise from various causes, including trauma, arthritis, neurological disorders, or prolonged immobilization. Patients may present with difficulty in walking, pain, and instability in the knee joint. The deformity can be classified as either congenital or acquired, with acquired deformities being more common in adults due to degenerative changes or injury. The knee flexion deformity can lead to secondary complications such as muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and altered gait mechanics. Treatment options may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as osteotomy or arthroplasty, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the deformity. Accurate diagnosis and documentation are crucial for effective management and coding of this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes (trauma, arthritis, neurological disorders)
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting the knee
  • Need for detailed documentation of functional limitations
  • Variability in treatment approaches and outcomes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the cause of the deformity
  • Lack of detailed functional assessment
  • Inconsistent coding of related conditions
  • Failure to document treatment plans and outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with knee pain and limited range of motion due to flexion deformity.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any surgical interventions or referrals to physical therapy.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring rehabilitation post-surgery or those with chronic knee issues.

Billing Considerations

Document progress and response to therapy to support ongoing treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.269 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's cause and any associated symptoms
  • Include details on the patient's functional status and treatment history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.269 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Total knee arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with severe knee flexion deformity requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

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

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 knee deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M21.269 provides a clear framework for documenting flexion deformities, which can enhance patient care and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of knee deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M21.269 provides a clear framework for documenting flexion deformities, which can enhance patient care 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 knee?

Flexion deformity can arise from various factors, including trauma, degenerative joint disease, neurological disorders, or prolonged immobilization. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.

How is flexion deformity diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, assessment of range of motion, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to evaluate the joint structure and any associated conditions.