ICD Code M79.644

ICD code M79.644 is used to specify a diagnosis of pain in the right finger(s). This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), which is utilized by healthcare providers to document and report various health conditions. The code M79.644 specifically identifies cases where a patient is experiencing pain localized to one or more fingers on the right hand, aiding in accurate medical record-keeping and facilitating appropriate billing and treatment processes.

1. Localized Pain: The patient experiences pain specifically in one or more fingers on the right hand. This pain should be distinct and not generalized to other parts of the hand or body.

2. Duration of Symptoms: The pain has persisted for a significant period, typically beyond a few days, indicating that it is not a transient issue. Chronic or recurring pain should be documented.

3. Impact on Functionality: The pain affects the patient's ability to perform daily activities involving the use of the right hand, such as gripping, typing, or writing.

4. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Other potential causes of finger pain, such as fractures, dislocations, or systemic conditions like arthritis, have been ruled out through clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.

5. Physical Examination Findings: Upon examination, there may be tenderness, swelling, or other signs of discomfort localized to the right finger(s), without evidence of infection or trauma.

6. Patient History: The patient's medical history does not indicate a recent injury or surgery to the right hand that could explain the pain, suggesting a non-traumatic origin.

7. Absence of Neurological Symptoms: There are no accompanying neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the right finger(s), which might suggest a nerve-related issue.

8. Consistency of Symptoms: The pain is consistent in nature and does not fluctuate significantly in intensity or location, supporting a diagnosis specific to the right finger(s).

9. Response to Initial Treatment: If initial conservative treatments, such as rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relief, have been ineffective, further investigation and coding may be warranted.

10. Patient's Report: The patient consistently reports pain in the right finger(s) during follow-up visits, reinforcing the need for ongoing documentation and management.

For the ICD code M79.644, which pertains to pain in the right finger(s), the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 20600 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a small joint or bursa (e.g., fingers, toes); without ultrasound guidance.

2. 20605 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into an intermediate joint or bursa (e.g., wrist, elbow, ankle, temporomandibular, acromioclavicular); without ultrasound guidance.

3. 20550 - Injection(s); single tendon sheath, or ligament, aponeurosis (e.g., plantar "fascia").

4. 20551 - Injection(s); single tendon origin/insertion.

5. 99201-99215 - Evaluation and Management (E/M) codes for office or other outpatient visits, depending on the complexity and time spent with the patient.

6. 97035 - Application of a modality to 1 or more areas; ultrasound, each 15 minutes.

7. 97110 - Therapeutic exercises to develop strength and endurance, range of motion, and flexibility (each 15 minutes).

These CPT codes are examples of procedures and services that might be used in the management or treatment of pain in the right finger(s) as indicated by ICD code M79.644. It's important to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific treatment provided and the clinical scenario.

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