ICD Code M65.19

ICD code M6519 refers to "Other infective (teno)synovitis, multiple sites." This code is used to classify and document cases where a patient is experiencing an infection that affects the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon, known as tenosynovitis, and this condition is present in multiple locations within the body. The term "other infective" indicates that the infection is not caused by the most common pathogens typically associated with tenosynovitis, suggesting a need for further investigation to identify the specific infectious agent. This code is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately record and manage the patient's condition, ensuring appropriate treatment and facilitating effective communication with insurance companies for reimbursement purposes.

When considering the use of the ICD code M6519 for other infective (teno)synovitis at multiple sites, the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms should be evaluated:

1. Presence of Synovitis
- Swelling and inflammation of the synovial membrane in multiple joints or tendon sheaths.

2. Infectious Etiology
- Evidence of an underlying infection, which may be bacterial, viral, or fungal in nature.

3. Multiple Sites Involvement
- Involvement of more than one joint or tendon sheath, indicating a systemic or widespread process.

4. Pain and Tenderness
- Localized pain and tenderness in the affected areas, often exacerbated by movement.

5. Limited Range of Motion
- Decreased mobility in the affected joints or tendons due to pain and swelling.

6. Fever or Systemic Symptoms
- Presence of fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms that may suggest an infectious process.

7. Laboratory Findings
- Positive cultures or serological tests indicating infection, along with elevated inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP).

8. Imaging Studies
- Radiological evidence (e.g., MRI, ultrasound) showing inflammation or fluid accumulation in multiple sites.

9. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Ruling out other causes of synovitis, such as autoimmune disorders or traumatic injuries, to confirm the diagnosis of infective tenosynovitis.

10. Clinical History
- A relevant clinical history that supports the diagnosis, including recent infections, surgeries, or exposure to infectious agents.

These criteria should be carefully assessed to determine the appropriate use of the ICD code M6519.

For the ICD code M65.19, which pertains to other infective (teno)synovitis of multiple sites, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 26055 - Incision and drainage of tendon sheath of hand or finger (e.g., for drainage of infection).

2. 26160 - Excision of lesion of tendon sheath or joint capsule (e.g., cyst, mucous cyst, or ganglion), hand or finger.

3. 20600 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a small joint or bursa (e.g., fingers, toes); without ultrasound guidance.

4. 20605 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into an intermediate joint or bursa (e.g., wrist, elbow, ankle, temporomandibular, acromioclavicular); without ultrasound guidance.

5. 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.

6. 20610 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee, subacromial bursa); without ultrasound guidance.

7. 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.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that might be performed to address the condition associated with ICD code M65.19. 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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