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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.822

M21.822

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of left upper arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.822 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of left upper arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.822 refers to acquired deformities of the left upper arm that are not classified elsewhere. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgical interventions, or diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system. Common examples include post-fracture malunion, where the bone heals in an abnormal position, or deformities resulting from conditions such as arthritis or neurological disorders. The left upper arm encompasses the area from the shoulder to the elbow, and deformities can manifest as changes in bone structure, muscle atrophy, or altered joint function. Clinically, these deformities may lead to functional limitations, pain, and decreased range of motion, impacting the patient's quality of life. Treatment often involves physical therapy, orthopedic interventions, or surgical correction, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the 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

  • Variety of potential underlying causes for deformities
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support the diagnosis
  • Differentiation from similar codes related to other upper limb deformities
  • 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
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding practices among different providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the deformity, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture deformities, congenital deformities requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging and surgical notes are included to support the diagnosis.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, therapy notes, and progress reports.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgery for deformity correction, management of pain and mobility issues.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of the deformity on daily activities and rehabilitation goals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.822 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M21
  • 822 should be used when the deformity is acquired and not due to congenital conditions
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the deformity is specified as affecting the left upper arm

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.822 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Arthroscopy, shoulder, diagnostic, with or without synovial biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used when assessing joint issues related to deformities.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must support the need for arthroscopy.

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 patient records and reimbursement processes. M21.822 provides a clear classification for conditions that were previously less defined 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 patient records and reimbursement processes. M21.822 provides a clear classification for conditions that were previously less defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M21.822 provides a clear classification for conditions that were previously less 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 types of conditions can M21.822 be used for?

M21.822 can be used for various acquired deformities of the left upper arm, including those resulting from trauma, surgical interventions, or diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system.