AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2016 Issue 4; ICD-10-CM NEW/REVISED CODES
Bunion and Bunionette
Category M21.6, Other acquired deformities of ankle and foot, has been expanded to specifically identify bunion of right foot (M21.611), bunion of left foot (M21.612), and bunion of unspecified foot (M21.619). Prior to this change, bunion was an inclusion term at code M20.1, Hallux valgus (acquired). In addition, a new subcategory and new codes have been created to describe bunionette (tailor’s bunion). The new codes include bunionette of right foot (M21.621), bunionette of left foot (M21.622), and bunionette of unspecified foot (M21.629). Bunionette was previously not uniquely identified in ICD-10-CM...
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Article Overview
This article reviews ICD-10-CM changes related to bunion and bunionette diagnoses, including how the conditions are categorized and differentiated by foot laterality. It is intended for coding professionals and others who need a clear understanding of the affected diagnosis group, the updated code structure, and the broader clinical context discussed in the article.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate diagnosis classification for foot deformities affects record specificity, reporting consistency, and code selection in ICD-10-CM. The article helps readers understand where these conditions belong in the diagnosis classification system and why the terminology update matters for documentation review.
What You Will Learn
- How bunion and bunionette are discussed in the ICD-10-CM classification context
- How laterality is represented in the updated diagnosis group
- How the article distinguishes bunion-related terminology from broader foot deformity classification
- The general clinical context for bunion and bunionette conditions
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Clinical documentation specialists
- Health information management professionals
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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