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 CodesM67.21

M67.21

Billable

Synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, shoulder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M67.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Synovial hypertrophy refers to the abnormal enlargement of the synovial membrane, which lines the joints and produces synovial fluid. In the shoulder, this condition can lead to increased joint stiffness, pain, and decreased range of motion. It is often associated with inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or tenosynovitis. The hypertrophy can result from chronic irritation or inflammation, leading to the thickening of the synovial lining. Patients may present with symptoms such as shoulder pain, swelling, and difficulty in performing overhead activities. Diagnosis typically involves clinical examination, imaging studies like MRI or ultrasound, and sometimes arthroscopy to assess the extent of synovial changes. Treatment may include corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or surgical interventions to remove the hypertrophied tissue if conservative measures fail. Understanding the underlying cause of synovial hypertrophy is crucial for effective management and to prevent further joint damage.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various types of synovial disorders
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings
  • Potential overlap with other shoulder conditions like tenosynovitis
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on underlying causes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of hypertrophy
  • Misclassification with other shoulder disorders
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with shoulder pain and limited range of motion due to synovial hypertrophy.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document the extent of synovial involvement and any surgical interventions performed.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history of joint symptoms, laboratory results, and response to treatments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with autoimmune conditions presenting with synovial hypertrophy as part of their disease process.

Billing Considerations

Rheumatologists should focus on the systemic implications of synovial hypertrophy and its management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M67.21 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics
  • Include any relevant imaging or lab results that support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M67.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

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

Clinical Scenario

Used when performing a corticosteroid injection for symptomatic relief.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and the patient's response.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure to document the joint involved and the specific substance injected.

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 hypertrophy, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like synovial hypertrophy, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like synovial hypertrophy, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track 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 synovial hypertrophy in the shoulder?

Synovial hypertrophy in the shoulder is primarily caused by chronic inflammation, which can result from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or repetitive strain injuries.