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 CodesM61.249

M61.249

Billable

Paralytic calcification and ossification of muscle, unspecified hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M61.249 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of paralytic calcification and ossification of muscle, unspecified hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Paralytic calcification and ossification of muscle refers to the abnormal deposition of calcium salts in muscle tissue, which can occur as a result of muscle paralysis. This condition is often seen in patients with neuromuscular disorders, where muscle weakness leads to disuse and subsequent calcification. The unspecified hand designation indicates that the condition affects the hand but does not specify which part or muscle group is involved. Patients may experience stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion in the affected hand. The calcification can be a result of various underlying conditions, including trauma, prolonged immobilization, or systemic diseases that affect muscle metabolism. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to visualize the calcified areas, alongside a thorough clinical evaluation to assess muscle function and strength. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to remove calcified tissue if it significantly impairs function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Need for precise documentation of muscle involvement
  • Differentiation from other muscle disorders
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of muscle weakness or paralysis
  • Failure to specify the affected muscle group
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, including muscle strength and reflexes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with neuromuscular disorders presenting with muscle weakness and calcification.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's neurological status and any imaging results.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes if intervention is performed, imaging results, and functional assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for calcified muscle tissue affecting mobility.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of calcification and its impact on function to justify surgical procedures.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M61.249 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's clinical presentation
  • Include details about the patient's history of muscle weakness or paralysis and any relevant imaging studies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M61.249 When
  • Exclude conditions that may lead to similar symptoms but are not classified under this code

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with calcification requires aspiration of the joint due to pain.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for aspiration and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure clear linkage between the diagnosis and 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 M61.249, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in better tracking of muscle disorders and their treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M61.249, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in better tracking of muscle disorders and their treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in better tracking of muscle disorders and their treatment outcomes.

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 paralytic calcification?

Paralytic calcification is primarily caused by muscle disuse or paralysis, which leads to abnormal calcium deposition in muscle tissue.

How is M61.249 diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, and a thorough assessment of muscle strength and function.