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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM67.231

M67.231

Billable

Synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, right forearm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M67.231 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, right forearm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Synovial hypertrophy refers to the abnormal enlargement of the synovial membrane, which lines the joints and tendon sheaths. This condition can occur due to various underlying issues, including inflammatory processes, repetitive strain, or degenerative changes. In the right forearm, synovial hypertrophy may manifest as swelling, pain, and limited range of motion, particularly affecting the wrist and elbow joints. It is often associated with conditions such as tenosynovitis, where the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon becomes inflamed, leading to pain and dysfunction. The hypertrophy may also be a precursor to tendon ruptures if left untreated, as the increased pressure can compromise the structural integrity of the tendons. Surgical interventions, such as synovectomy or tendon repair, may be necessary in severe cases to alleviate symptoms and restore function. Accurate diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, to assess the extent of synovial involvement and rule out other pathologies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various types of synovial disorders
  • Understanding the relationship between synovial hypertrophy and other conditions like tenosynovitis
  • Identifying the specific anatomical location (right forearm) for accurate coding
  • Navigating the nuances of surgical interventions related to synovial hypertrophy

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the clinical rationale for the diagnosis
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the hypertrophy
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding of related conditions or procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with pain and swelling in the forearm, often following repetitive activities or trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging studies are documented to support the diagnosis of synovial hypertrophy.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of inflammatory markers and patient history related to autoimmune conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic inflammatory diseases presenting with joint swelling and pain.

Billing Considerations

Document any systemic symptoms or laboratory findings that may indicate an underlying rheumatologic condition.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M67.231 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • 231 should be used when no other specific code applies, and the condition is confirmed through clinical evaluation

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M67.231 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 a patient with synovial hypertrophy requires aspiration of excess synovial fluid.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure, including the diagnosis and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on clinical findings.

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 the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like synovial hypertrophy, improving the accuracy of data collection 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 synovial hypertrophy?

Synovial hypertrophy is the abnormal enlargement of the synovial membrane, often due to inflammation or mechanical stress, leading to joint swelling and pain.

How is synovial hypertrophy diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves clinical examination, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI, and exclusion of other joint disorders.