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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.271

M21.271

Billable

Flexion deformity, right ankle and toes

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.271 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, right ankle and toes.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the right ankle and toes refers to a condition where the toes and ankle are bent in a flexed position, limiting the ability to straighten them. This acquired deformity can result from various factors, including neurological conditions, trauma, or prolonged immobilization. Patients may experience pain, difficulty walking, and an altered gait pattern. The condition can lead to secondary complications such as calluses, skin breakdown, and increased risk of falls. Treatment options may include physical therapy, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity. Surgical procedures may involve tendon lengthening, joint fusion, or osteotomy to realign the bones and restore function. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital deformities
  • Understanding the specific anatomical location (ankle vs. toes)
  • Identifying associated conditions that may complicate the diagnosis
  • Documenting the severity and impact on function

Audit Risk Factors

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

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the deformity, treatment plan, and any imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with pain and functional limitations due to flexion deformities.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any prior treatments and their outcomes.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing the patient's functional status and response to therapy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery for flexion deformity correction.

Billing Considerations

Document specific goals and measurable outcomes related to mobility and strength.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.271 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 271 should be used when the flexion deformity is specifically acquired and affects the right ankle and toes
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the nature of the deformity and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.271 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28285CPT Code

Osteotomy, metatarsal, with or without lengthening

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of flexion deformity.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document pre-operative assessments and post-operative care.

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 diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

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 diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like flexion deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

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 difference between M21.271 and M21.272?

M21.271 refers specifically to flexion deformity of the right ankle and toes, while M21.272 pertains to the left side. Accurate coding requires specifying the laterality.