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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM66.139

M66.139

Billable

Rupture of synovium, unspecified wrist

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M66.139 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rupture of synovium, unspecified wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Rupture of the synovium in the wrist is a condition characterized by the tearing of the synovial membrane, which lines the joints and tendon sheaths. This membrane plays a crucial role in the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and facilitates smooth movement. A rupture can occur due to trauma, repetitive strain, or underlying inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or tenosynovitis. Symptoms may include localized swelling, pain, and decreased range of motion in the wrist. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound, and sometimes arthroscopy to visualize the joint. Treatment options may vary from conservative management, including rest and physical therapy, to surgical intervention for severe cases. Surgical repair may involve debridement of the damaged synovium or reconstruction to restore joint function. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of treatment outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Need for precise documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Differentiation from other wrist conditions such as tenosynovitis or tendon ruptures
  • Potential for surgical intervention requiring detailed operative reports

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the side of the wrist affected
  • Lack of imaging or operative reports to support the diagnosis
  • Misinterpretation of symptoms leading to incorrect coding

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with wrist pain following trauma or repetitive use, requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical procedures are documented, including any complications or additional findings during surgery.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including previous inflammatory conditions and current treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with underlying autoimmune disorders presenting with wrist synovitis and potential rupture.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the relationship between systemic conditions and local joint issues is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M66.139 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M66
  • 139 should be used when the specific wrist side is not documented
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical findings and that the documentation reflects the nature of the injury

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M66.139 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

29875CPT Code

Arthroscopy, wrist, diagnostic

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient presents with wrist pain and a suspected synovial rupture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing findings and procedures performed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that all findings are clearly documented to support the diagnosis.

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 synovial rupture, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like synovial rupture, improving the accuracy of patient records 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 is the difference between M66.139 and M66.131?

M66.139 is used when the specific wrist side is not documented, while M66.131 is for ruptures specifically in the right wrist.