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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.82

M21.82

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of upper arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.82 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of upper arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.82 refers to acquired deformities of the upper arm that do not fall under more specific categories. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgical interventions, or conditions that lead to structural changes in the arm. Common examples include post-fracture malunion, where the bone heals in an abnormal position, or deformities resulting from conditions such as arthritis or neuromuscular disorders. The upper arm's anatomy includes the humerus, muscles, and connective tissues, and deformities can affect functionality, leading to pain, reduced range of motion, and impaired daily activities. Treatment may involve physical therapy, orthopedic interventions, or surgical correction, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the deformity. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking outcomes in clinical practice.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of acquired deformities
  • Differentiation from congenital deformities
  • Need for detailed clinical history to establish causation
  • Potential overlap with other musculoskeletal codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify the type of acquired deformity
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history of the deformity, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-traumatic deformities, post-surgical complications, and degenerative changes.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly outlines the acquired nature of the deformity and any prior treatments.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional limitations and treatment goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following orthopedic surgery or trauma, management of chronic pain due to deformities.

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and the impact of the deformity on daily living activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.82 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 82 should be used when the specific acquired deformity of the upper arm is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the deformity is acquired rather than congenital

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.82 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Repair of humeral fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is performed to correct an acquired deformity.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must clearly link the procedure to the acquired deformity.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M21.82 provides a distinct code for acquired deformities of the upper arm, which aids in better patient management and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M21.82 provides a distinct code for acquired deformities of the upper arm, which aids in better patient management 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 types of conditions are classified under M21.82?

M21.82 includes various acquired deformities of the upper arm, such as those resulting from trauma, surgical complications, or chronic conditions that alter the arm's structure.