ICD Code M65.149

ICD code M65.149 is used to classify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, unspecified hand." This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is used by healthcare providers to document and categorize diagnoses. In this context, "infective (teno)synovitis" refers to an infection that affects the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon, leading to inflammation. The term "tenosynovitis" specifically denotes inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath (synovium) that surrounds a tendon, which can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected hand. The designation "unspecified hand" indicates that the condition is present in a hand, but the specific hand (left or right) has not been identified in the documentation. This code is crucial for healthcare providers as it aids in accurate record-keeping, billing, and treatment planning, ensuring that the patient receives appropriate care and that the healthcare facility is reimbursed correctly for the services provided.

When considering the use of the ICD code M65149 for Other infective (teno)synovitis, unspecified hand, the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms should be evaluated:

1. Presence of Synovitis: Evidence of inflammation in the synovial membrane of the hand, typically characterized by swelling and tenderness.

2. Infectious Etiology: Clinical suspicion or confirmation of an infectious cause, which may include:

- Recent history of infection in the hand or surrounding areas.

- Positive cultures or serological tests indicating an infectious agent.

3. Localized Symptoms: Symptoms specifically affecting the hand, including:

- Pain in the affected area, particularly during movement.

- Swelling and warmth over the joint or tendon sheath.

4. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty or pain when attempting to move the fingers or wrist, indicating functional impairment.

5. Systemic Symptoms: Presence of systemic signs of infection, which may include:

- Fever or chills.

- Fatigue or malaise.

6. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Ruling out other potential causes of synovitis, such as:

- Non-infectious inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).

- Traumatic injuries or degenerative changes.

7. Imaging Findings: Radiological evidence supporting the diagnosis, which may include:

- MRI or ultrasound showing fluid accumulation in the tendon sheath or joint space.

8. Response to Treatment: Monitoring the response to initial treatment, which may help confirm the diagnosis if symptoms improve with appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

By adhering to these diagnostic criteria and symptoms, healthcare providers can accurately determine the necessity of using the ICD code M65149 in their documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code M65.149, which pertains to other infective (teno)synovitis of an unspecified 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., wrist, elbow, ankle, olecranon bursa); without ultrasound guidance.

These CPT codes are commonly used for procedures that might be necessary to address conditions associated with the ICD code M65.149. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific treatment rendered and the clinical scenario.

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