ICD Code M65.171

ICD code M65.171 is used to identify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, right ankle and foot." 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 refers to an infection that affects the synovial sheath, a layer of tissue that surrounds tendons, in the right ankle and foot. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected area. 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, right ankle and foot:

1. Presence of Symptoms:
- Swelling in the right ankle and foot.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area.
- Limited range of motion in the ankle or foot.

2. Clinical Findings:
- Redness or warmth over the affected tendon or synovial area.
- Palpable tenderness along the tendon sheath.

3. Diagnostic Imaging:
- MRI or ultrasound findings indicating inflammation of the tendon sheath.
- X-ray results ruling out fractures or other bone-related issues.

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

5. Patient History:
- Recent history of trauma or overuse of the ankle and foot.
- Previous infections or inflammatory conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.

6. Response to Treatment:
- Lack of improvement with conservative management (e.g., rest, ice, elevation).
- Need for further intervention, such as aspiration or surgical evaluation.

7. Differential Diagnosis:
- Exclusion of other conditions such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or septic arthritis that may present with similar symptoms.

Using the ICD code is appropriate when these diagnostic criteria and symptoms are present, indicating the specific condition affecting the right ankle and foot.

For the ICD code M65.171, which pertains to other infective (teno)synovitis of the right ankle and foot, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 20600 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a small joint or bursa (e.g., fingers, toes); without ultrasound guidance.

2. 20605 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into an intermediate joint or bursa (e.g., wrist, elbow, ankle, temporomandibular, acromioclavicular); without ultrasound guidance.

3. 20606 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into an intermediate joint or bursa (e.g., wrist, elbow, ankle, temporomandibular, acromioclavicular); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

4. 20610 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder); without ultrasound guidance.

5. 20611 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

6. 26055 - Incision with drainage of tendon sheath of hand or finger (e.g., for infection), each.

7. 26160 - Excision of lesion of tendon sheath or capsule (e.g., cyst, mucous cyst, or ganglion), hand or finger.

These CPT codes are commonly associated with procedures that may be performed to address conditions related to the ICD code M65.171. It's important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed and the clinical scenario.

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