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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.821

M21.821

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of right upper arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.821 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of right upper arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.821 refers to acquired deformities of the right upper arm that are not classified elsewhere. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system. Common examples include post-fracture malunion, contractures due to burns or immobilization, and deformities resulting from conditions such as arthritis. The clinical presentation may vary, with patients experiencing limitations in range of motion, pain, and functional impairment. Treatment often involves physical therapy, surgical intervention, or orthotic support to restore function and alleviate discomfort. Accurate coding requires a thorough understanding of the patient's history and the specific nature of the deformity, as well as any associated conditions that may impact treatment and outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes for acquired deformities
  • Need for precise documentation of the deformity's nature and origin
  • Differentiation from congenital deformities and other related codes
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions affecting the upper arm

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify the exact nature of the deformity
  • Misclassification with congenital deformities
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the deformity's origin, treatment plan, and outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-surgical deformities, trauma-related deformities, and degenerative conditions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging and surgical reports are included in the documentation.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgery or injury leading to deformity.

Billing Considerations

Document specific goals and outcomes related to the deformity.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.821 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 821 should be used when the deformity is acquired and not due to congenital factors
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the cause and nature of the deformity, and any associated conditions should be coded as well

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.821 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Repair of upper arm deformity

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical correction of the deformity is performed.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must provide comprehensive documentation of the deformity and treatment rationale.

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 data collection and reimbursement processes. M21.821 provides a clear classification for acquired deformities of the right upper arm, which was less specific in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M21.821 provides a clear classification for acquired deformities of the right upper arm, which was less specific in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M21.821 provides a clear classification for acquired deformities of the right upper arm, which was less specific 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 types of conditions can be coded with M21.821?

M21.821 can be used for various acquired deformities of the right upper arm, including those resulting from trauma, surgery, or degenerative diseases. It is important to document the specific cause and nature of the deformity.