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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.272

M21.272

Billable

Flexion deformity, left ankle and toes

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.272 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, left ankle and toes.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the left ankle and toes refers to a condition where there is an abnormal bending or flexing of the ankle joint and the toes, leading to a functional impairment. This acquired deformity can result from various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or chronic diseases such as arthritis. Patients may present with difficulty in walking, pain, and an inability to wear standard footwear. The condition can lead to secondary complications such as calluses, skin breakdown, and further joint deformities if not addressed. Treatment options may include physical therapy, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity. Corrective procedures may involve tendon lengthening, joint fusion, or osteotomy, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the flexion deformity. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital deformities
  • Identifying the specific joints affected (ankle vs. toes)
  • Documenting the underlying cause of the deformity
  • Understanding the implications of associated conditions (e.g., arthritis)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to document the functional impact on the patient
  • Lack of clarity on the treatment plan and interventions
  • Incorrect coding of associated conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the deformity, treatment plans, and outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with post-traumatic deformities, degenerative joint disease, or congenital conditions requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical procedures are documented with pre-operative and post-operative notes.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery or those with chronic pain due to flexion deformities.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and patient progress to support the need for ongoing therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.272 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding and reporting, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics, including laterality and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.272 When
  • Exclude congenital deformities unless specified

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28285CPT Code

Osteotomy, first metatarsal

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of severe hallux valgus with associated flexion deformity.

Documentation Requirements

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

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 granularity of data for treatment outcomes 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 granularity of data for treatment outcomes 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 left ankle and toes?

Flexion deformity can be caused by various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or chronic diseases such as arthritis. It is essential to document the underlying cause for accurate coding.