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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.851

M21.851

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of right thigh

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.851 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of right thigh.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.851 refers to acquired deformities of the right thigh that are not classified elsewhere. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or disease processes that alter the normal anatomy of the thigh. Common examples include deformities resulting from fractures that heal improperly, surgical interventions that lead to structural changes, or conditions such as osteoarthritis that can cause joint deformities. The right thigh is particularly significant due to its role in mobility and weight-bearing activities. Clinicians must assess the extent of the deformity, its impact on function, and any associated pain or disability. Treatment may involve physical therapy, orthotic devices, or surgical correction, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the deformity. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes leading to deformities
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to specify the nature of the deformity
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on individual patient factors

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify the right thigh as the affected area
  • Misclassification with congenital deformities
  • Inconsistent coding with treatment records

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture deformities, post-surgical changes, and degenerative joint disease.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states the acquired nature of the deformity and any relevant surgical history.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, treatment goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following orthopedic surgery or trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of the deformity on the patient's functional abilities and quality of life.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.851 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the deformity is acquired and specifically affects the right thigh
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and specify the nature of the deformity

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.851 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Osteotomy, femur

Clinical Scenario

Used for correcting deformities of the femur due to malunion or other acquired conditions.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessments, imaging studies, and post-operative follow-up notes.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention 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 deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning. M21.851 provides a clear distinction from congenital conditions, enhancing the clarity of patient records.

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 planning. M21.851 provides a clear distinction from congenital conditions, enhancing the clarity of patient records.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acquired deformities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning. M21.851 provides a clear distinction from congenital conditions, enhancing the clarity of patient records.

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 under M21.851?

M21.851 can be used for various acquired deformities of the right thigh, including those resulting from trauma, surgical interventions, or degenerative diseases. It is essential that the documentation specifies the acquired nature of the deformity.