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M67.432
ICD-10-CM
Ganglion Cyst, Left Wrist

Find information on Ganglion Cyst Left Wrist diagnosis including ICD-10 code M71.331, clinical documentation requirements, differential diagnosis, and treatment options. Learn about ganglion cyst symptoms, causes, and when to see a doctor for wrist pain. Explore resources for healthcare professionals, medical coding guidelines, and best practices for accurate diagnosis and documentation of a ganglion cyst on the left wrist.

Also known as

Synovial Cyst
Bible Cyst

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Noncancerous fluid-filled lump, usually on the wrist or hand.
  • Clinical Signs : Visible lump, possible pain or tenderness, often asymptomatic. May affect range of motion.
  • Common Settings : Dorsal wrist most common. Also seen on the palm, fingers, and foot.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC M67.432 Coding
M71.12-

Ganglion cyst of left wrist

Noncancerous fluid-filled cyst on the left wrist.

M71.1-

Ganglion cyst of wrist

Noncancerous fluid-filled cyst on the wrist.

M71.-

Other soft tissue disorders

Disorders affecting various soft tissues, including cysts.

M65-M68

Synovial disorders

Conditions affecting the synovium, often related to joint function.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Is the ganglion cyst specified as ruptured?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Ganglion Cyst, Left Wrist
Ganglion Cyst, Right Wrist
Ganglion Cyst, Unspecified Wrist

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Ganglion cyst location: Left wrist, specify dorsal/volar
  • Cyst size measured in cm: length x width x height
  • Symptoms: pain, tingling, numbness, ROM limitations
  • Physical exam: Palpable mass, transillumination if done
  • Differential diagnosis considered and ruled out

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Laterality Coding Error

    Incorrectly coding the affected wrist (right vs. left) can lead to claim denials and inaccurate data reporting. Ensure proper laterality documentation and coding (e.g., ICD-10 M71.342).

  • Unspecified Location Coding

    Using unspecified ganglion cyst codes when the specific location (wrist) is documented. This impacts data analysis and reimbursement. Code specifically (e.g., ICD-10 M71.342).

  • Documentation Clarity Issue

    Insufficient documentation to support the diagnosis, impacting code selection. Detailed clinical documentation ensures accurate coding and reduces audit risk.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document cyst size, location, & symptoms for accurate ICD-10 coding (M71.342)
  • Use precise CDI queries for laterality (left wrist) & symptom impact
  • Monitor for recurrence, document aspiration/excision with CPT codes (25111, 25066)
  • Educate patients on observation vs. intervention, ensuring informed consent & compliance
  • Regularly review clinical documentation for clarity, completeness, and coding accuracy

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • 1. Palpable, smooth, round mass on left wrist?
  • 2. Transillumination positive?
  • 3. Symptoms: pain, paresthesia, or limited ROM?
  • 4. Exclude other wrist pathologies (e.g., arthritis, tumor)?
  • 5. Document size, location, and mobility of cyst.

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Ganglion Cyst Left Wrist reimbursement: ICD-10 M71.341, CPT 25111 (excision), impacts coding accuracy for optimal payment.
  • Accurate Ganglion Cyst coding (M71.341) affects hospital quality reporting metrics on soft tissue procedures.
  • Proper documentation of Left Wrist Ganglion Cyst impacts surgical complication rates and readmission data reporting.
  • Timely filing and coding of Ganglion Cyst claims (M71.341) minimize denials and improve revenue cycle management.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes. Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code M71.342 left wrist
  • Document cyst size/location
  • Specify if symptomatic/painful
  • Include laterality in diagnosis
  • Check documentation for recurrence

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with a ganglion cyst of the left wrist.  Chief complaint is a palpable lump or mass on the dorsal aspect of the left wrist, consistent with a ganglion.  Onset is reported as gradual over several weeks.  The patient denies any specific trauma or injury to the area.  The cyst is non-tender to palpation, approximately 1 cm in diameter, and has a firm, smooth consistency.  Transillumination of the cyst is positive.  Range of motion in the left wrist is full, but the patient reports intermittent aching and mild discomfort with certain movements, specifically wrist extension and flexion.  No paresthesias, numbness, or tingling are reported in the hand or fingers.  Differential diagnosis includes lipoma, giant cell tumor of tendon sheath, and other soft tissue masses.  Impression is ganglion cyst of the left wrist, dorsal aspect.  Treatment options including observation, aspiration, and surgical excision were discussed.  Patient elected conservative management with observation at this time and will return for follow-up in four weeks.  ICD-10 code M71.342 is documented for ganglion cyst of left wrist.  Patient education provided regarding ganglion cyst symptoms, causes, and treatment options.  Return to clinic if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.