ICD Code M65.122

ICD code M65.122 is used to identify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, left elbow." This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which is used by healthcare providers to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. Specifically, this code indicates an infection that affects the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon in the left elbow, leading to inflammation. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving the elbow joint, and it often requires medical intervention to treat the underlying infection and alleviate symptoms.

When considering the use of the ICD code M65122 for Other infective (teno)synovitis of the left elbow, the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms should be evaluated:

1. Presence of Pain: Patient reports localized pain in the left elbow, particularly during movement or pressure.

2. Swelling: Observable swelling around the left elbow joint, indicating inflammation.

3. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty or discomfort when attempting to move the left elbow, suggesting restricted mobility.

4. Tenderness: Palpation of the left elbow reveals tenderness, indicating inflammation or infection.

5. Warmth: Increased warmth in the area surrounding the left elbow joint, which may suggest an inflammatory process.

6. History of Infection: Patient has a recent history of infection or trauma that could predispose them to tenosynovitis.

7. Joint Stiffness: Reports of stiffness in the left elbow, particularly after periods of inactivity.

8. Systemic Symptoms: Presence of systemic symptoms such as fever or malaise that may accompany the local symptoms.

9. Diagnostic Imaging Findings: Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound or MRI) show signs of synovial inflammation or effusion in the left elbow.

10. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Other potential causes of elbow pain and swelling have been ruled out, confirming the diagnosis of infective tenosynovitis.

These criteria should be carefully assessed to determine the appropriateness of using the ICD code M65122 in clinical documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code M65.122, which pertains to "Other infective (teno)synovitis, left elbow," the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 20605 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee joint, subacromial bursa); without ultrasound guidance.

2. 20606 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee joint, subacromial bursa); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

3. 26055 - Incision and drainage of tendon sheath of the hand and/or wrist (e.g., for infection).

4. 26160 - Excision of lesion of tendon sheath or joint capsule (e.g., cyst, mucous cyst, or ganglion), hand or finger.

5. 29837 - Arthroscopy, elbow, surgical; synovectomy, partial.

6. 29838 - Arthroscopy, elbow, surgical; synovectomy, complete.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that might be performed to address the condition described by ICD code M65.122. The selection of the appropriate CPT code would depend on the specific treatment plan and procedures performed by the healthcare provider. Always ensure that coding is done in accordance with the latest coding guidelines and payer-specific requirements.

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