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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM67.35

M67.35

Billable

Transient synovitis, hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M67.35 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of transient synovitis, hip.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Transient synovitis of the hip is a benign inflammatory condition characterized by the temporary swelling of the synovial membrane in the hip joint. It is most commonly seen in children aged 3 to 10 years and often presents with hip pain, limping, and reduced range of motion. The exact etiology is often unclear, but it may follow a viral infection or be associated with trauma. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, which can reveal joint effusion. Treatment usually involves rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and sometimes physical therapy. In rare cases, aspiration of the joint may be necessary to relieve symptoms. The condition is self-limiting, with most patients recovering fully within a few weeks. However, it is crucial to differentiate transient synovitis from more serious conditions such as septic arthritis or Perthes disease, which may require more aggressive intervention.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating from other hip conditions like septic arthritis and Perthes disease.
  • Variability in clinical presentation among different age groups.
  • Need for imaging studies to confirm diagnosis.
  • Potential for misdiagnosis leading to incorrect coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings.
  • Failure to document the duration of symptoms.
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record.
  • Misclassification of the condition as septic arthritis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and any imaging studies performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

A child presenting with hip pain after a recent viral illness.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document the age of the patient and any differential diagnoses considered.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of hip function, imaging results, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

An adolescent with hip pain and limited range of motion requiring further evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions or referrals to rule out other conditions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M67.35 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M67
  • 35 should be used when the condition is specifically diagnosed as transient synovitis of the hip
  • It is important to document the clinical findings and any imaging studies that support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M67.35 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration of hip joint

Clinical Scenario

Used when joint effusion is present and needs to be drained.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for aspiration and the amount of fluid removed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may perform this procedure more frequently.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of transient synovitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also highlighted the importance of detailed documentation to support the diagnosis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of transient synovitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also highlighted the importance of detailed documentation to support the diagnosis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also highlighted the importance of detailed documentation to support the diagnosis.

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 typical recovery time for transient synovitis?

Most children recover from transient synovitis within 1 to 4 weeks with appropriate rest and treatment.

How can transient synovitis be differentiated from septic arthritis?

Transient synovitis typically presents without fever and has a more gradual onset, while septic arthritis often presents with acute pain, fever, and systemic symptoms.