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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.52

M21.52

Billable

Acquired clubhand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.52 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired clubhand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired clubhand, also known as acquired radial club hand, is a congenital or acquired deformity characterized by a shortened or absent radius bone in the forearm, leading to a wrist and hand that are positioned in a characteristic 'club' shape. This condition can arise from various factors, including trauma, infections, or neurological conditions that affect the growth and development of the forearm bones. Patients may present with limited range of motion, functional impairment, and cosmetic concerns. The condition can also lead to associated deformities in the fingers, such as syndactyly or polydactyly, and may be accompanied by other abnormalities like hallux valgus in the toes. Treatment often involves corrective procedures, such as osteotomies or tendon transfers, to improve function and appearance. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovery, focusing on strengthening and improving the range of motion. Accurate coding requires a thorough understanding of the patient's history and the specific nature of the deformity, as well as any associated conditions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of the condition
  • Potential for associated deformities in fingers and toes
  • Need for detailed documentation of the acquired nature of the deformity
  • Differentiation from congenital clubhand and other similar conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the acquired nature of the condition
  • Failure to document associated deformities or conditions
  • Lack of clarity regarding the functional impact on the patient
  • Inconsistent coding practices among different providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical correction of clubhand deformities, management of associated finger abnormalities, and rehabilitation planning.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must ensure that all aspects of the deformity and its treatment are documented, including any associated conditions.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and developmental assessments, family history, and any associated congenital conditions should be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of children with acquired clubhand due to trauma or other factors, and referral for surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Pediatricians should be aware of the psychosocial impact of the condition on children and their families.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.52 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M21
  • 52 should be used when the clubhand is acquired rather than congenital
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis, including the cause of the acquired deformity and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.52 When
  • Exclusion criteria include congenital deformities and conditions that do not meet the definition of acquired clubhand

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25400CPT Code

Osteotomy, radius

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of acquired clubhand.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

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 acquired conditions like clubhand, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning. The detailed coding structure helps in capturing the nuances of acquired deformities, which may have been less clearly defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired conditions like clubhand, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning. The detailed coding structure helps in capturing the nuances of acquired deformities, which may have been less clearly defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired conditions like clubhand, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning. The detailed coding structure helps in capturing the nuances of acquired deformities, which may have been less clearly defined in ICD-9.

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 congenital and acquired clubhand?

Congenital clubhand is present at birth and is typically due to genetic factors, while acquired clubhand develops later in life due to trauma, infections, or other medical conditions affecting bone growth.