ICD Code M65.162

ICD code M65.162 is used to identify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, left knee." 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 knee. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected knee, and it typically requires medical evaluation and treatment to address the underlying infection and alleviate symptoms.

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

1. Presence of Symptoms:
- Swelling in the left knee joint
- Pain or tenderness in the left knee
- Limited range of motion in the left knee
- Warmth or redness around the left knee

2. Diagnostic Imaging Findings:
- Evidence of effusion in the left knee joint on ultrasound or MRI
- Signs of inflammation or infection in the soft tissues surrounding the left knee

3. Laboratory Results:
- Positive culture results indicating the presence of infectious agents
- Elevated white blood cell count or inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP, ESR)

4. Clinical History:
- Recent history of trauma or injury to the left knee
- Previous episodes of joint infections or inflammatory conditions
- Underlying conditions that predispose to infections (e.g., diabetes, immunosuppression)

5. Physical Examination Findings:
- Tenderness upon palpation of the left knee
- Signs of systemic infection (e.g., fever, chills) accompanying local symptoms

6. Response to Treatment:
- Lack of improvement with conservative management (e.g., rest, ice, elevation) indicating a possible infectious process

7. Differential Diagnosis Consideration:
- Exclusion of other potential causes of knee pain and swelling, such as gout, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis, through appropriate diagnostic workup.

These criteria should guide healthcare providers in determining the appropriate use of the ICD code for accurate documentation and billing.

For the ICD code M65.162, which pertains to other infective (teno)synovitis of the left 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. 27369 - Injection procedure for knee arthrography, including contrast material.

5. 29870 - Arthroscopy, knee, diagnostic, with or without synovial biopsy (separate procedure).

6. 29871 - Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; for infection, lavage, and drainage.

7. 29875 - Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; synovectomy, limited (e.g., plica or shelf resection) (separate procedure).

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that may be performed to diagnose or treat conditions associated with the ICD code M65.162. It's important for healthcare providers to select the most appropriate CPT code based on the specific clinical scenario and the services provided.

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