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 CodesM66.212

M66.212

Billable

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, left shoulder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M66.212 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, left shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the left shoulder is a condition characterized by the unexpected tearing of the extensor tendons, which are responsible for extending the fingers and wrist. This condition can occur without any significant trauma or injury, often associated with underlying degenerative changes or inflammatory processes such as tenosynovitis. Patients may present with sudden pain, swelling, and loss of function in the affected shoulder. The diagnosis is typically confirmed through clinical examination and imaging studies, such as MRI, which can reveal tendon integrity and associated soft tissue changes. Treatment options may include conservative management with rest and physical therapy or surgical intervention to repair the ruptured tendon, depending on the severity of the rupture and the patient's functional needs. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the condition and its management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between spontaneous and traumatic ruptures
  • Understanding the anatomical specifics of extensor tendons
  • Documenting associated conditions like tenosynovitis
  • Navigating surgical versus non-surgical treatment options

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the spontaneous nature of the rupture
  • Failure to document associated conditions like tenosynovitis
  • Incorrect linkage of surgical procedures to the diagnosis
  • Lack of clarity in the treatment plan and follow-up

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with sudden shoulder pain and loss of function, often after minimal or no trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states the spontaneous nature of the rupture and any associated conditions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring rehabilitation post-surgery or those managing symptoms conservatively.

Billing Considerations

Document the patient's progress and response to therapy to support ongoing treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M66.212 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the condition is confirmed and documented
  • Include any relevant associated conditions and specify the anatomical site accurately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M66.212 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Repair of ruptured tendon, shoulder

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair is performed for the spontaneous rupture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the nature of the rupture and any associated findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of spontaneous tendon ruptures, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of spontaneous tendon ruptures, 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 spontaneous and traumatic tendon rupture?

Spontaneous tendon rupture occurs without significant trauma, often due to underlying conditions, while traumatic rupture results from a specific injury or event.