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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM67.249

M67.249

Billable

Synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, unspecified hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M67.249 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of synovial hypertrophy, not elsewhere classified, unspecified hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Synovial hypertrophy refers to the abnormal enlargement of the synovial membrane, which lines the joints and tendon sheaths. This condition can lead to increased synovial fluid production, resulting in joint swelling and discomfort. In the context of the hand, synovial hypertrophy may be associated with various underlying conditions, including inflammatory arthritis, repetitive strain injuries, or tenosynovitis. Patients may present with symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected hand. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes synovial fluid analysis. Treatment options may include corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or surgical interventions to relieve symptoms and restore function. Surgical repairs may be necessary in cases of severe tendon damage or ruptures associated with synovial hypertrophy, emphasizing the importance of accurate coding for effective management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and underlying causes
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate from similar conditions
  • Potential for co-existing conditions that complicate coding
  • Variability in treatment approaches and their documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the hypertrophy
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding of co-existing conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with inflammatory arthritis presenting with joint swelling and pain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant comorbidities are documented to support the diagnosis.

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for tendon repair due to synovial hypertrophy.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of tendon damage and any associated procedures performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M67.249 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include details about the location and severity of the condition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M67.249 When
  • Exclude conditions that are specifically classified elsewhere

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 an aspiration of the joint due to synovial hypertrophy.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and the findings during aspiration.

Specialty Considerations

Rheumatologists should ensure that the diagnosis supports the need for the procedure.

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. M67.249 provides a specific code for cases that do not fit into other classifications, 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. M67.249 provides a specific code for cases that do not fit into other classifications, enhancing data collection and analysis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like synovial hypertrophy, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M67.249 provides a specific code for cases that do not fit into other classifications, enhancing data collection and analysis.

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?

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