ICD Code M67.379

ICD code M67.379 is used to identify a medical condition known as transient synovitis affecting an unspecified ankle and foot. Transient synovitis is a temporary inflammation of the synovial membrane, which is the lining of the joint. This condition often results in pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected joint. 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 healthcare providers to accurately document and communicate the diagnosis for billing, treatment planning, and statistical purposes.

When to use the ICD code for transient synovitis, unspecified ankle and foot:

1. Presence of Joint Pain: The patient reports pain in the ankle or foot, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities.

2. Swelling: Observable swelling in the affected ankle or foot, indicating inflammation.

3. Limited Range of Motion: The patient exhibits restricted movement in the ankle or foot due to discomfort or swelling.

4. Recent History of Trauma: There may be a recent history of injury or trauma to the ankle or foot, although not always necessary for diagnosis.

5. Age Consideration: The condition is more commonly diagnosed in children, typically between the ages of 3 and 10 years.

6. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Other potential causes of joint pain and swelling, such as fractures, infections, or other inflammatory conditions, have been ruled out through clinical evaluation and imaging studies.

7. Acute Onset: Symptoms have developed acutely, often over a period of days rather than gradually over weeks or months.

8. Response to Rest and Non-Weight Bearing: Symptoms improve with rest and reduction of weight-bearing activities, indicating a transient nature of the condition.

9. Absence of Systemic Symptoms: The patient does not exhibit systemic symptoms such as fever, which would suggest a more serious underlying condition.

10. Physical Examination Findings: The physical examination reveals tenderness localized to the joint without signs of systemic illness or chronic joint disease.

These criteria should be carefully evaluated to determine the appropriate use of the ICD code for transient synovitis of the ankle and foot.

For the ICD code M67.379, which pertains to transient synovitis of the unspecified ankle and foot, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 20610 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder joint); without ultrasound guidance.

2. 20611 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder joint); with ultrasound guidance, with permanent recording and reporting.

3. 99201-99215 - Evaluation and Management (E/M) codes for office or other outpatient visits, depending on the complexity and time spent with the patient.

4. 97035 - Application of a modality to one or more areas; ultrasound, each 15 minutes.

5. 97110 - Therapeutic exercises to develop strength and endurance, range of motion, and flexibility (each 15 minutes).

6. 97140 - Manual therapy techniques (e.g., mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, manual traction), one or more regions, each 15 minutes.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures and services that might be used in the management or treatment of conditions associated with ICD code M67.379. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT codes based on the specific services rendered and the clinical scenario.

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