ICD Code M65.312

ICD code M65312 is used to identify the medical condition known as "trigger thumb" specifically affecting the left thumb. Trigger thumb is a condition where the thumb gets stuck in a bent position and may straighten with a snap, similar to a trigger being released. This occurs due to inflammation or narrowing of the sheath surrounding the tendon in the thumb, which can cause pain and limit movement. The code M65312 is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which is used by healthcare providers to standardize the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions for billing and record-keeping purposes.

When to use the ICD code for Trigger Thumb, Left Thumb:

1. Presence of Symptoms:
- Patient reports pain or discomfort in the left thumb.
- Patient experiences a sensation of locking or catching when moving the left thumb.

2. Physical Examination Findings:
- Tenderness over the flexor tendon sheath of the left thumb.
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon sheath in the left thumb.

3. Range of Motion Assessment:
- Limited range of motion in the left thumb, particularly during flexion and extension.
- Difficulty in fully extending the left thumb after it has been flexed.

4. Duration of Symptoms:
- Symptoms have persisted for a significant period, typically more than a few weeks.
- Symptoms are not resolving with conservative treatment measures.

5. Impact on Daily Activities:
- Patient reports difficulty performing daily tasks that require thumb movement, such as gripping or pinching.
- Symptoms interfere with occupational or recreational activities.

6. Exclusion of Other Conditions:
- Other potential causes of thumb pain or dysfunction have been ruled out through clinical evaluation.
- No evidence of fractures, arthritis, or other underlying conditions affecting the left thumb.

7. Response to Treatment:
- Symptoms do not improve with rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain medications.
- Patient may have undergone physical therapy or other interventions without significant relief.

These criteria should be carefully assessed to determine the appropriate use of the ICD code for Trigger Thumb, Left Thumb.

For the ICD code M65312, which pertains to trigger thumb of the left thumb, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 26055 - Tendon sheath incision (e.g., for trigger finger).

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

3. 20550 - Injection(s); single tendon sheath, or ligament, aponeurosis (e.g., plantar "fascia").

These CPT codes are commonly used in procedures related to the treatment of trigger thumb, depending on the specific intervention required. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed.

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