ICD Code M65.821

ICD code M65821 is used to identify a medical diagnosis of "Other synovitis and tenosynovitis" specifically affecting the right upper arm. Synovitis refers to the inflammation of the synovial membrane, which lines joints and tendons, while tenosynovitis involves inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon. This code is utilized by healthcare providers to document and communicate this particular condition for billing, treatment planning, and statistical purposes within the healthcare system.

When to use the ICD code M65821 for Other synovitis and tenosynovitis, right upper arm:

1. Presence of Synovitis
- Swelling in the joint area of the right upper arm.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected joint.

2. Presence of Tenosynovitis
- Pain along the tendons in the right upper arm.
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon sheath.

3. Limited Range of Motion
- Difficulty moving the shoulder or elbow joint on the right side.
- Stiffness in the right upper arm that affects daily activities.

4. Inflammatory Symptoms
- Warmth or redness over the affected area.
- Symptoms persisting for an extended period, indicating chronic inflammation.

5. Diagnostic Imaging Findings
- MRI or ultrasound showing fluid accumulation in the joint or tendon sheath.
- Evidence of inflammation in the soft tissues surrounding the joint.

6. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Ruling out other potential causes of joint pain or swelling, such as fractures or infections.
- Confirmation that the symptoms are not due to systemic conditions affecting multiple joints.

7. Patient History
- Documented history of repetitive use or trauma to the right upper arm.
- Previous episodes of similar symptoms or known inflammatory conditions.

8. Response to Treatment
- Lack of improvement with conservative management (e.g., rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications).
- Need for further intervention, such as physical therapy or corticosteroid injections.

For the ICD code M65.821, which pertains to "Other synovitis and tenosynovitis, right upper arm," 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., shoulder, hip, knee joint, subacromial bursa); without ultrasound guidance.

2. 20611 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee joint, subacromial bursa); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

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

4. 20551 - Injection(s); single tendon origin/insertion.

5. 73030 - Radiologic examination, shoulder; complete, minimum of two views.

6. 76881 - Ultrasound, extremity, nonvascular, real-time with image documentation; complete.

7. 97035 - Application of a modality to 1 or more areas; ultrasound, each 15 minutes.

8. 97110 - Therapeutic exercises to develop strength and endurance, range of motion, and flexibility (each 15 minutes).

These CPT codes are commonly associated with the treatment of conditions related to synovitis and tenosynovitis in the upper arm, and healthcare providers should select the appropriate code based on the specific treatment and procedures performed. Always ensure that the chosen CPT code accurately reflects the services provided and is supported by the patient's medical documentation.

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