ICD Code M66.239

ICD code M66239 is used to classify a medical condition where there is a spontaneous rupture of the extensor tendons in an unspecified forearm. Extensor tendons are responsible for straightening the fingers and wrist, and a rupture can lead to significant functional impairment. The term "spontaneous" indicates that the rupture occurred without any apparent external trauma or injury. The designation "unspecified forearm" means that the specific side of the body (left or right forearm) where the rupture occurred is not detailed in the medical documentation. This code is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately document the condition for treatment planning and billing purposes.

When to use the ICD code for spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, unspecified forearm:

1. Patient Presentation:

- Patient reports sudden onset of pain in the forearm.

- Patient experiences difficulty in extending fingers or wrist.

2. Physical Examination Findings:

- Swelling or bruising observed in the forearm region.

- Tenderness upon palpation of the extensor tendon area.

3. Functional Limitations:

- Inability to perform activities requiring wrist or finger extension.

- Weakness noted during manual muscle testing of the extensor muscles.

4. Imaging Studies:

- MRI or ultrasound confirms the presence of a tendon rupture.

- Absence of other injuries in the forearm that could explain the symptoms.

5. History of Injury:

- Patient reports a specific incident or trauma leading to the injury.

- No prior history of tendon issues or chronic conditions affecting the tendons.

6. Follow-Up Assessments:

- Persistent symptoms despite conservative management (e.g., rest, ice, immobilization).

- Need for surgical intervention is indicated based on clinical evaluation.

7. Exclusion of Other Conditions:

- Differential diagnosis ruled out (e.g., fractures, ligament injuries).

- No signs of infection or systemic conditions affecting tendon integrity.

These criteria should guide healthcare providers in determining the appropriate use of the ICD code for documentation and billing purposes.

For the ICD code M66.239, which pertains to the spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in an unspecified forearm, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 24341 - Repair, tendon or muscle, upper arm or elbow, each tendon or muscle, primary or secondary (excludes rotator cuff).

2. CPT 24342 - Reinsertion of ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, distal, with or without tendon graft.

3. CPT 25260 - Repair, tendon or muscle, flexor, forearm and/or wrist; primary, single, each tendon or muscle.

4. CPT 25265 - Repair, tendon or muscle, flexor, forearm and/or wrist; secondary, single, each tendon or muscle.

5. CPT 25270 - Repair, tendon or muscle, extensor, forearm and/or wrist; primary, single, each tendon or muscle.

6. CPT 25275 - Repair, tendon or muscle, extensor, forearm and/or wrist; secondary, single, each tendon or muscle.

These CPT codes are typically used to describe surgical procedures that repair or reconstruct tendons in the forearm, which may be necessary for treating the condition described by ICD code M66.239. 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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