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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM66.28

M66.28

Billable

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, other site

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M66.28 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, other site.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, particularly at sites other than the commonly affected areas such as the wrist or fingers, can occur due to various underlying conditions, including chronic tenosynovitis or degenerative tendon changes. This condition is characterized by the sudden loss of tendon integrity, which may lead to functional impairment and pain. Patients often present with acute pain, swelling, and loss of function in the affected area. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, to confirm the rupture and assess the extent of damage. Treatment may involve conservative management, including rest and physical therapy, or surgical intervention to repair the tendon, depending on the severity of the rupture and the patient's functional needs. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the condition and its management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and location of tendon ruptures
  • Need for precise documentation of the site and nature of the rupture
  • Differentiation from other tendon injuries and conditions
  • Potential for co-existing conditions that may complicate coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific site of rupture
  • Failure to document associated conditions like tenosynovitis
  • Lack of clarity on the treatment plan and outcomes
  • Inconsistent coding practices among different providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute pain and functional loss in the extremities, often following a history of repetitive strain or underlying tendon pathology.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly outline the surgical approach, extent of the repair, and any complications encountered during the procedure.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluations, treatment plans, and progress notes detailing functional assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery or those receiving conservative management for tendon ruptures.

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and the impact of the injury on daily activities is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M66.28 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding tendon injuries, ensuring accurate documentation of the site and nature of the rupture
  • Include any relevant co
  • existing conditions that may affect treatment and outcomes

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M66.28 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

26340CPT Code

Repair of tendon, extensor, hand or finger

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair of the ruptured extensor tendon is performed.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, including the extent of the repair and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific tendon repaired and any associated procedures.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M66.28 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures at specific sites, enhancing the granularity of patient data.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M66.28 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures at specific sites, enhancing the granularity of patient data.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M66.28 provides a clear distinction for spontaneous ruptures at specific sites, enhancing the granularity of patient data.

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 causes of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons?

Common causes include chronic degenerative changes, inflammatory conditions such as tenosynovitis, and acute trauma. Patients with underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are at higher risk.