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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM67.232

M67.232

Billable

Synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, left forearm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M67.232 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, left forearm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Synovial hypertrophy refers to the abnormal enlargement of the synovial membrane, which lines the joints and tendon sheaths. In the case of M67.232, this condition is localized to the left forearm. Synovial hypertrophy can occur due to various underlying conditions, including inflammatory arthritis, repetitive strain injuries, or tenosynovitis. The condition may present with symptoms such as swelling, pain, and limited range of motion in the affected area. It is often associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, where inflammation leads to the thickening of the synovial membrane. Diagnosis typically involves clinical examination, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes synovial fluid analysis. Treatment may include corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or surgical intervention if conservative measures fail. Understanding the underlying cause of synovial hypertrophy is crucial for effective management and to prevent complications such as tendon ruptures or chronic pain syndromes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various types of synovial disorders.
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and underlying conditions.
  • Potential for overlapping diagnoses with other musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on the underlying cause.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying cause of synovial hypertrophy.
  • Failure to document associated symptoms or functional limitations.
  • Misclassification of the condition as a more specific diagnosis.
  • Inconsistent coding between different healthcare providers.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of joint symptoms, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with joint swelling, pain, and stiffness, particularly in the context of autoimmune diseases.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the underlying cause of synovial hypertrophy is clearly documented to support the diagnosis.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups if surgical intervention is performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic pain and functional impairment due to synovial hypertrophy, possibly requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical procedures performed, including the rationale for surgery and outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M67.232 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M67
  • 232 should be used when synovial hypertrophy is confirmed and not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that it accurately reflects the patient's condition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M67.232 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 or injection for symptom relief.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure, the joint involved, and the volume of fluid aspirated or injected.

Specialty Considerations

Rheumatologists may perform this procedure for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

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 diagnoses and treatment tracking. M67.232 provides a clear designation for cases that do not fit into other categories, enhancing data collection and analysis.

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 diagnoses and treatment tracking. M67.232 provides a clear designation for cases that do not fit into other categories, enhancing data collection and analysis.

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 is synovial hypertrophy?

Synovial hypertrophy is the abnormal thickening of the synovial membrane, often due to inflammation, leading to joint swelling and pain.

How is M67.232 different from other codes?

M67.232 specifically refers to synovial hypertrophy in the left forearm and is used when no other specific diagnosis applies.