ICD Code M66.146

ICD code M66.146 is used to classify a medical diagnosis related to the rupture of the synovium in unspecified finger(s). The synovium is a specialized connective tissue that lines the inner surface of capsules of synovial joints and tendon sheaths. A rupture in this area can lead to pain, swelling, and impaired movement in the affected finger(s). This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is used by healthcare providers to document and bill for medical diagnoses and procedures. The specificity of this code helps in accurately capturing the condition for treatment planning and insurance purposes.

When to use the ICD code for "Rupture of synovium, unspecified finger(s)":

1. Clinical Presentation:

- Patient reports pain in the finger(s) that is sudden in onset.

- Swelling or inflammation observed in the affected finger(s).

2. Physical Examination Findings:

- Tenderness upon palpation of the affected finger(s).

- Limited range of motion in the finger(s) due to pain or mechanical obstruction.

3. History of Injury:

- Recent trauma or injury to the finger(s) that may have caused the rupture.

- Previous history of repetitive stress or overuse of the finger(s).

4. Imaging Studies:

- MRI or ultrasound findings indicating a rupture of the synovial tissue in the finger(s).

- Absence of fractures or other structural abnormalities in the finger(s) on X-ray.

5. Exclusion of Other Conditions:

- Rule out other potential causes of finger pain and swelling, such as fractures, tendon injuries, or infections.

- Confirmation that the symptoms are specifically related to synovial rupture rather than other pathologies.

6. Duration of Symptoms:

- Symptoms persisting for a duration that warrants medical evaluation, typically more than a few days post-injury.

7. Response to Initial Treatment:

- Lack of improvement with conservative management (e.g., rest, ice, elevation, and immobilization) indicating a need for further diagnostic coding.

By adhering to these diagnostic criteria and symptoms, healthcare providers can accurately determine when to utilize the appropriate ICD code for this condition.

For the ICD code M66.146, which pertains to the rupture of synovium in unspecified finger(s), the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 26055 - Incision with drainage of finger abscess; simple.

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

3. 26340 - Manipulation, finger joint, under anesthesia, each joint.

4. 26440 - Repair, extensor tendon, finger, primary or secondary, without free graft, each tendon.

5. 26442 - Repair, extensor tendon, finger, primary or secondary, with free graft (includes obtaining graft), each tendon.

6. 26540 - Repair, flexor tendon, finger, primary or secondary, without free graft, each tendon.

7. 26546 - Repair, flexor tendon, finger, primary or secondary, with free graft (includes obtaining graft), each tendon.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that might be considered for addressing issues related to the rupture of synovium in the fingers. It's important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific treatment rendered and the clinical scenario. Always verify with the latest coding guidelines and payer policies to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

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