ICD Code M65.161

ICD code M65.161 is used to identify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, right knee." This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is a standardized system used by healthcare providers to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. In this specific case, the code M65.161 refers to an infection that affects the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon in the right knee. Teno(synovitis) is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath (synovium) that surrounds a tendon, typically resulting in joint pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. The term "other infective" indicates that the condition is caused by an infection, but it does not specify the exact pathogen responsible. This code helps healthcare providers accurately document the condition for treatment planning, billing, and statistical purposes.

When considering the use of the ICD code M65161 for Other infective (teno)synovitis of the right knee, the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms should be evaluated:

1. Presence of Pain: The patient reports localized pain in the right knee, particularly during movement or pressure.

2. Swelling: Observable swelling or edema around the right knee joint, indicating inflammation.

3. Limited Range of Motion: The patient experiences difficulty or discomfort when attempting to move the knee, suggesting restricted mobility.

4. Tenderness: The right knee exhibits tenderness upon palpation, indicating inflammation or irritation of the surrounding tissues.

5. Warmth: The affected area may feel warm to the touch, a sign of increased blood flow due to inflammation.

6. History of Infection: The patient has a recent history of infection, particularly in the vicinity of the knee or related structures, which may contribute to the condition.

7. Joint Stiffness: The patient reports stiffness in the right knee, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning.

8. Diagnostic Imaging Findings: Imaging studies (e.g., MRI, ultrasound) reveal signs of synovitis or other inflammatory changes in the right knee joint.

9. Laboratory Results: Blood tests may indicate elevated inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) or signs of infection.

10. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Other potential causes of knee pain and swelling (e.g., osteoarthritis, gout, trauma) have been ruled out through clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.

These criteria and symptoms should be carefully assessed to determine the appropriateness of using the ICD code M65161 in the patient's medical documentation.

For the ICD code M65.161, which pertains to other infective (teno)synovitis of the right knee, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 20610 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., knee joint, subacromial bursa), without ultrasound guidance.

2. 20611 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., knee joint, subacromial bursa), with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

3. 27370 - Injection of contrast for knee arthrography.

4. 29870 - Arthroscopy, knee, diagnostic, with or without synovial biopsy (separate procedure).

5. 29871 - Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; for infection, lavage and drainage.

6. 29875 - Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; synovectomy, limited (e.g., plica or shelf resection) (separate procedure).

These CPT codes are typically used for procedures that may be performed to diagnose or treat conditions associated with the ICD code M65.161. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed and the clinical scenario.

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