ICD Code M65.179

ICD code M65.179 is used to identify a medical condition known as "Other infective (teno)synovitis, unspecified ankle and foot." This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), which is a system used by healthcare providers to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. In this specific case, the code M65.179 refers to an infection that affects the synovial sheath, which is the protective layer surrounding tendons, in the ankle and foot region. The term "infective" indicates that the condition is caused by an infection, while "tenosynovitis" refers to the inflammation of the tendon sheath. The designation "unspecified" suggests that the exact location within the ankle and foot is not detailed in the medical documentation. This code is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately document the condition for treatment planning, billing, and statistical purposes.

When to use the ICD code for Other infective (teno)synovitis, unspecified ankle and foot:

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

2. Clinical Findings:
- Evidence of inflammation in the synovial tissue.
- Warmth or redness over the affected joint.
- Possible presence of effusion in the joint space.

3. Diagnostic Imaging:
- MRI or ultrasound findings indicating synovitis or tenosynovitis.
- X-ray results showing no fractures but potential soft tissue swelling.

4. Infectious Etiology:
- History of recent infection or trauma to the ankle or foot.
- Laboratory tests indicating the presence of infectious agents (e.g., bacteria, fungi).

5. Exclusion of Other Conditions:
- Ruling out other causes of joint pain or swelling, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Confirmation that the condition is not due to a non-infectious inflammatory process.

6. Duration of Symptoms:
- Symptoms persisting for a specific duration that suggests an infectious process (e.g., more than a few days).

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

By adhering to these diagnostic criteria and symptoms, healthcare providers can accurately determine when to apply the appropriate ICD code for documentation and billing purposes.

For the ICD code M65.179, which pertains to "Other infective (teno)synovitis, unspecified 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., temporomandibular, ankle, wrist, elbow); without ultrasound guidance.

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

4. 20611 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee, subacromial bursa); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

5. 26055 - Incision with drainage of finger abscess; simple.

6. 26160 - Excision of lesion of tendon sheath or joint capsule (e.g., cyst, mucous cyst, or ganglion), hand or finger.

7. 27603 - Incision and drainage, leg or ankle; deep abscess or hematoma.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that might be performed to address the condition associated with ICD code M65.179. It's important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed and the clinical scenario. Always ensure that coding is done in compliance with the latest coding guidelines and payer policies.

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