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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM22.2

M22.2

Billable

Patellofemoral disorders

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M22.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of patellofemoral disorders.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Patellofemoral disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the knee joint, particularly the patella (kneecap) and its interaction with the femur (thigh bone). These disorders often arise from internal derangements such as meniscal tears, ligament injuries, or malalignment of the patella. Symptoms typically include anterior knee pain, swelling, and difficulty with activities such as climbing stairs or squatting. The underlying pathophysiology may involve cartilage degeneration, patellar tracking issues, or overuse injuries. Diagnosis is often confirmed through clinical examination and imaging studies, including MRI or X-rays, which can reveal structural abnormalities. Treatment options vary from conservative management, including physical therapy and bracing, to surgical interventions such as arthroscopy for debridement or realignment procedures. Accurate coding for patellofemoral disorders is crucial for appropriate reimbursement and patient management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes (e.g., meniscal tears, ligament injuries)
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings
  • Differentiation from other knee disorders (e.g., osteoarthritis)
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the type of patellofemoral disorder
  • Misalignment with treatment codes
  • Inconsistent use of imaging results in documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with knee pain, swelling, or instability, often after sports injuries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document the specific type of patellofemoral disorder and any associated injuries.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing patient response to therapy, functional assessments, and treatment goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for patellofemoral pain syndrome or post-operative recovery.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and patient progress to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M22.2 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics
  • Include any relevant imaging findings and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M22.2 When
  • Exclude conditions that do not specifically pertain to patellofemoral disorders

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

29881CPT Code

Arthroscopy, knee, diagnostic, with or without synovial biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used when performing a diagnostic arthroscopy for patellofemoral disorders.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the procedure, findings, and any interventions performed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure detailed operative notes are provided.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of patellofemoral disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity 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 patellofemoral disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity 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 are the common symptoms of patellofemoral disorders?

Common symptoms include anterior knee pain, swelling, difficulty with activities like climbing stairs, and a sensation of instability or locking in the knee.

How is a patellofemoral disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess for structural abnormalities.