ICD-10-CM Billable Code

M89.122

Complete physeal arrest, left proximal humerus

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Complete physeal arrest of the left proximal humerus is a condition where the growth plate at the top of the upper arm bone (humerus) on the left side ceases to grow. The growth plate, or physis, is a layer of cartilage near the ends of long bones in children and adolescents which allows the bones to grow longer. When this area stops functioning properly, it can affect the growth and development of that part of the bone, leading to potential deformities or discrepancies in arm length. This condition distinctively involves the complete cessation of growth at the involved growth plate, which may result from injury, infection, or other factors, especially in childhood or adolescence.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Trauma or fracture involving the growth plate of the proximal humerus Infections impacting the growth plate (e.g., osteomyelitis) Vascular injuries disrupting blood supply to the growth plate Certain medical conditions or disorders affecting bone growth Previous surgical interventions or treatments affecting the growth area

Key Symptoms: Decreased length or deformity of the affected upper arm Asymmetry between the two arms if only one side is affected Limited shoulder movement or stiffness Pain or tenderness over the affected area (less common in complete arrest) Visible deformity or abnormal contour of the shoulder

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing complete physeal arrest involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests. The physician will review the patient's medical history and perform a physical examination, noting any deformity or discrepancy in arm length. Imaging studies, predominantly X-rays, are crucial for visualizing the growth plate and assessing the bone structure. In some cases, MRI scans may be utilized to evaluate soft tissue and cartilage in detail. The absence of growth plate activity and changes in bone structure confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests may be performed to determine underlying causes like infection or vascular issues.

Treatment Protocols: Management of complete physeal arrest depends on the severity of symptoms and the functional impact. Treatment options may include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is M89.122 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M89.122 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report M89.122?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Complete physeal arrest, left proximal humerus and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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