ICD Code M66.849

ICD code M66849 is used to classify a medical condition where there is a spontaneous rupture of a tendon in an unspecified hand. This means that the tendon has torn or split without any external trauma or injury causing it, and the specific hand affected is not identified in the documentation. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which helps healthcare providers accurately document and bill for medical diagnoses and procedures.

When to use the ICD code for spontaneous rupture of other tendons, unspecified hand:

1. Patient Presentation:

- Patient reports sudden onset of pain in the hand.

- Patient describes a specific incident or trauma leading to the pain.

2. Physical Examination Findings:

- Swelling or bruising observed in the hand.

- Limited range of motion in the affected hand or fingers.

- Tenderness upon palpation of the affected tendon area.

3. Diagnostic Imaging:

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

- X-rays rule out associated fractures or other injuries.

4. Symptom Duration:

- Symptoms have persisted for a short duration, typically within a few days of the incident.

5. Exclusion of Other Conditions:

- Other potential causes of hand pain (e.g., fractures, ligament injuries, or inflammatory conditions) have been ruled out.

6. Patient History:

- No prior history of tendon injuries in the same area.

- No underlying chronic conditions that could predispose to tendon rupture (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes).

7. Functional Impact:

- Patient experiences difficulty performing daily activities involving the hand.

- Symptoms significantly impair hand function or strength.

By adhering to these diagnostic criteria and symptoms, healthcare providers can accurately determine when to apply the appropriate ICD code for spontaneous rupture of other tendons in the unspecified hand.

For the ICD code M66.849, which pertains to the spontaneous rupture of other tendons in an unspecified hand, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment could include:

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

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

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

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

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

6. CPT 26356 - Repair or advancement, flexor tendon, in zone 2 digital flexor tendon sheath (eg, no man's land); primary, without free graft, each tendon.

7. CPT 26357 - Repair or advancement, flexor tendon, in zone 2 digital flexor tendon sheath (eg, no man's land); secondary, without free graft, each tendon.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that might be performed to address tendon ruptures in the hand, depending on the specific circumstances and clinical judgment of the healthcare provider. It is important to consult with a medical billing specialist or coder to ensure accurate coding based on the specific details of the case.

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