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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM66.29

M66.29

Billable

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, multiple sites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M66.29 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, multiple sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons at multiple sites is a condition characterized by the unexpected tearing of the extensor tendons, which are responsible for extending the fingers and toes. This condition can occur without any apparent trauma or injury, often linked to underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or chronic tenosynovitis. Patients may present with sudden loss of function in the affected extremities, pain, swelling, and visible deformities. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes exploratory surgery to assess the extent of the rupture. Treatment may include conservative management with splinting and physical therapy, or surgical intervention to repair the ruptured tendons. The prognosis varies based on the severity of the rupture and the timeliness of treatment, with early intervention generally leading to better outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between spontaneous and traumatic ruptures
  • Identifying multiple sites of rupture accurately
  • Documenting underlying conditions that may contribute to tendon rupture
  • Understanding the nuances of surgical versus non-surgical treatment options

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the spontaneous nature of the rupture
  • Failure to specify multiple sites of rupture
  • Lack of clarity regarding associated conditions
  • Improper linkage between diagnosis and treatment codes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute loss of function in the hand or foot, often after a sudden onset of pain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the surgical approach and any complications encountered during repair.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including any autoimmune conditions and previous tendon issues.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic inflammatory conditions presenting with tendon ruptures.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between underlying rheumatologic conditions and tendon health.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M66.29 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M66
  • 29 should be used when there is clear documentation of spontaneous rupture at multiple sites
  • Coders must ensure that the medical record supports the diagnosis and that all relevant clinical details are included

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M66.29 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

26301CPT Code

Repair of ruptured tendon, extensor, hand or wrist

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair is performed for spontaneous ruptures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the extent of the rupture and repair technique.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document the surgical approach and any complications.

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, including spontaneous ruptures. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tendon injuries, including spontaneous ruptures. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and to avoid claim denials.

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 inflammatory conditions, degenerative changes in the tendon, and systemic diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.