ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM23.001

M23.001

Billable

Cystic meniscus, unspecified lateral meniscus, left knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M23.001 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cystic meniscus, unspecified lateral meniscus, left knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cystic meniscus refers to a condition where a cyst forms within the meniscus of the knee, specifically affecting the lateral meniscus on the left side. This condition can arise due to degeneration, trauma, or as a result of a meniscal tear. The presence of a cyst can lead to internal derangements of the knee joint, causing pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Patients may experience symptoms such as locking or catching sensations in the knee, which can be exacerbated by physical activity. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI, which can reveal the cyst's size and location, as well as any associated meniscal tears or ligament injuries. Treatment options may include conservative management with physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, or surgical intervention such as arthroscopy to remove the cyst or repair the meniscus. Accurate coding of this condition is crucial for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between cystic meniscus and other types of meniscal tears.
  • Identifying the specific location and type of meniscal injury.
  • Understanding the implications of associated ligament injuries.
  • Navigating the documentation requirements for surgical procedures.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the cyst's characteristics.
  • Failure to document associated injuries or conditions.
  • Misinterpretation of imaging results.
  • Inconsistent coding of related procedures.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and pre-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with knee pain and swelling, requiring arthroscopic evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the cyst's size, location, and any associated meniscal or ligament injuries.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluations, treatment plans, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing conservative management for knee pain due to meniscal issues.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and response to therapy to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M23.001 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M23
  • 001 should be used when the cystic meniscus is confirmed through imaging and is specifically located in the left knee
  • It is important to document any associated conditions, such as meniscal tears or ligament injuries, to ensure accurate coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M23.001 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

29881CPT Code

Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; with meniscectomy, medial or lateral meniscus

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for cystic meniscus.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery and any findings during the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like cystic meniscus, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like cystic meniscus, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 is the primary cause of cystic meniscus?

Cystic meniscus can arise from degenerative changes, trauma, or as a complication of a meniscal tear, leading to fluid accumulation within the meniscus.