ICD Code M66.279

ICD code M66.279 is used to classify and document a medical diagnosis of a spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in an unspecified ankle and foot. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is used by healthcare providers to standardize the reporting of diseases and conditions. A spontaneous rupture refers to a tendon tear that occurs without any apparent external trauma or injury. Extensor tendons are responsible for straightening the toes and foot, and their rupture can lead to difficulty in performing these movements. The term "unspecified" indicates that the documentation does not specify whether the condition affects the left or right ankle and foot. This code is crucial for accurate medical billing and ensuring that healthcare providers receive appropriate reimbursement for the care provided.

When to use the ICD code for spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, unspecified ankle and foot:

1. Acute Onset of Symptoms
- Sudden pain in the ankle or foot region.
- Immediate loss of function in the affected area.

2. Physical Examination Findings
- Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the toes or foot.
- Swelling and tenderness around the ankle or foot.

3. Range of Motion Limitations
- Inability to extend the toes or foot.
- Restricted movement in the ankle joint.

4. Diagnostic Imaging Results
- MRI or ultrasound confirming the rupture of extensor tendons.
- X-rays ruling out associated fractures or other injuries.

5. Mechanism of Injury
- History of trauma or sudden force applied to the ankle or foot.
- Activities involving rapid changes in direction or excessive load on the foot.

6. Associated Symptoms
- Bruising or discoloration around the ankle or foot.
- Pain that worsens with movement or pressure on the affected area.

7. Patient History
- Previous tendon injuries or surgeries in the same area.
- Underlying conditions that may predispose to tendon injuries (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).

8. Response to Conservative Treatment
- Lack of improvement with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) protocol.
- Persistent symptoms despite physical therapy interventions.

These criteria should be assessed to determine the appropriate use of the ICD code for this specific condition.

For the ICD code M66.279, which pertains to the spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons in the unspecified ankle and foot, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 27650 - Repair, primary, open or percutaneous, of ruptured Achilles tendon.

2. 27652 - Repair, primary, open or percutaneous, of ruptured tendon, other than Achilles, in the ankle or foot.

3. 27654 - Repair, secondary, with or without graft, of ruptured tendon, other than Achilles, in the ankle or foot.

4. 27658 - Repair, flexor tendon, leg; primary, without graft, each tendon.

5. 27659 - Repair, flexor tendon, leg; secondary, with or without graft, each tendon.

6. 27664 - Repair, extensor tendon, leg; primary, without graft, each tendon.

7. 27665 - Repair, extensor tendon, leg; secondary, with or without graft, each tendon.

These CPT codes are typically used to describe surgical procedures related to the repair of tendon ruptures in the ankle and foot region. It's important for healthcare providers to select the most appropriate code based on the specific procedure performed.

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