ICD Code M66.241

ICD code M66.241 is used to classify and document a medical diagnosis of a spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the right hand. This condition refers to the sudden tearing or breaking of the tendons responsible for extending the fingers and thumb, without any apparent external trauma or injury. Such ruptures can lead to difficulty in straightening the fingers or thumb, affecting hand function and requiring medical evaluation and treatment. This code is essential for healthcare providers to accurately record the condition for billing, treatment planning, and statistical purposes.

When to use the ICD code for spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the right hand, consider the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms:

1. Patient History
- Recent trauma or injury to the hand or wrist.
- History of repetitive strain or overuse of the hand.

2. Physical Examination Findings
- Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the fingers.
- Swelling or bruising around the dorsal aspect of the hand.

3. Symptoms
- Sudden onset of pain in the hand, particularly during movement.
- Inability to extend one or more fingers fully.
- Weakness in hand grip or difficulty performing tasks requiring finger extension.

4. Imaging Studies
- MRI or ultrasound confirming the rupture of extensor tendons.
- X-rays to rule out associated fractures or other injuries.

5. Functional Assessment
- Assessment of hand function indicating loss of extension capability.
- Evaluation of activities of daily living affected by the injury.

6. Response to Conservative Treatment
- Lack of improvement with rest, ice, and immobilization.
- Persistent symptoms despite conservative management efforts.

These criteria should guide healthcare providers in determining the appropriate use of the ICD code for this specific condition.

For the ICD code M66.241, which pertains to the spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the right hand, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 26418 - Repair, extensor tendon, hand, primary or secondary, without free graft, each tendon.

2. CPT 26420 - Repair, extensor tendon, hand, primary or secondary, with free graft (includes obtaining graft), each tendon.

3. CPT 26426 - Repair, extensor tendon, hand, secondary, with free graft (includes obtaining graft), each tendon.

4. CPT 26428 - Repair, extensor tendon, hand, secondary, without free graft, each tendon.

These CPT codes are typically used to describe surgical procedures for repairing extensor tendons in the hand. The choice of code depends on the specific surgical technique used and whether a graft is involved. Always ensure that the selected CPT code accurately reflects the procedure performed for proper billing and reimbursement.

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