ICD Code M65.142

ICD code M65.142 is used to identify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, left hand." This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is a system used by healthcare providers to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. Specifically, this code refers to an infection that affects the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon in the left hand. Teno(synovitis) involves inflammation, and when it is infective, it means that the inflammation is caused by an infection, which can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty in hand movement. Proper coding of this condition is crucial for accurate medical billing and ensuring that healthcare providers receive appropriate reimbursement for their services.

When to use the ICD code for Other infective (teno)synovitis, left hand:

1. Presence of Symptoms:
- Swelling in the left hand
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area
- Limited range of motion in the fingers or wrist

2. Clinical Findings:
- Redness or warmth over the affected tendon sheath
- Palpable tenderness along the tendon
- Possible crepitus or a sensation of grating during movement

3. Diagnostic Imaging:
- MRI or ultrasound findings indicating inflammation of the tendon sheath
- Evidence of fluid accumulation in the synovial space

4. Laboratory Tests:
- Positive cultures from synovial fluid or tissue samples indicating infection
- Elevated white blood cell count or inflammatory markers in blood tests

5. History of Recent Trauma or Infection:
- Recent injury to the left hand or wrist
- History of systemic infections or localized infections that could spread to the tendon sheath

6. Response to Treatment:
- Lack of improvement with conservative management (e.g., rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications)
- Need for further intervention, such as aspiration or surgical intervention, due to persistent symptoms

7. Differential Diagnosis:
- Exclusion of other conditions that may mimic symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, through appropriate clinical evaluation and testing.

For the ICD code M65.142, which pertains to other infective (teno)synovitis of the left hand, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 26055 - Incision and drainage of finger abscess, simple.

2. 26160 - Excision of lesion of tendon sheath or joint capsule (e.g., cyst, mucous cyst, or ganglion), hand or finger.

3. 26340 - Manipulation, finger joint, under anesthesia, each joint.

4. 20600 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a small joint or bursa (e.g., fingers, toes); without ultrasound guidance.

5. 20605 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into an intermediate joint or bursa (e.g., temporomandibular, wrist, elbow, or ankle, olecranon bursa); without ultrasound guidance.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that may be performed to address the condition associated with ICD code M65.142. It's important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific treatment rendered and the clinical scenario.

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