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S86.019A
ICD-10-CM
Torn Achilles Tendon

Find information on Torn Achilles Tendon diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, ICD-10 codes (S86.0), healthcare provider resources, and treatment options. Learn about Achilles tendon rupture symptoms, diagnosis codes, and best practices for accurate medical record keeping related to Achilles tendon injuries. This resource offers guidance for physicians, coders, and other healthcare professionals seeking information on Torn Achilles Tendon diagnosis and coding.

Also known as

Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Tear

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Complete or partial tear of the Achilles tendon, connecting calf muscle to heel.
  • Clinical Signs : Sudden sharp pain in back of ankle, popping sound, difficulty walking and pushing off foot, palpable gap.
  • Common Settings : Sports injuries, falls, forceful jumping or pushing off.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC S86.019A Coding
S86.0-

Injury of Achilles tendon

Covers tears, ruptures, and other Achilles tendon injuries.

M76.8-

Other enthesopathies

Includes disorders where tendons/ligaments attach to bone.

S86.-

Injuries to muscle, fascia and tendon at lower leg

Encompasses various lower leg soft tissue injuries.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

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

Is the Achilles tendon tear traumatic?

  • Yes

    Is the tear complete?

  • No

    Is the tear spontaneous?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Torn Achilles tendon
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendinosis

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Torn Achilles tendon diagnosis: document physical exam findings.
  • Achilles tendon rupture: specify complete or partial tear.
  • ICD-10 S76.0XXA: initial encounter documentation required.
  • Document Thompson test result for Achilles tendon rupture.
  • Surgical repair vs. conservative treatment: document plan.

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Laterality Coding Errors

    Missing or incorrect laterality (right, left, bilateral) for Achilles tendon rupture impacts reimbursement and data accuracy. ICD-10-CM coding guidelines require specificity.

  • Complete vs. Partial Tear

    Distinguishing between complete (S86.0-) and partial (S86.1-) Achilles tendon tears is crucial. Accurate documentation and coding are essential for proper treatment and payment.

  • Traumatic vs. Non-traumatic

    Coding must reflect whether the tear was traumatic (S86.0-, S86.1-) or non-traumatic/atraumatic (M76.81). This distinction influences clinical documentation improvement (CDI) queries and reporting.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document Thompson test, Matles test findings for accurate ICD-10 coding (S86.0).
  • Precise laterality documentation (right, left, bilateral) improves CDI, HCC coding.
  • Thorough physical exam, imaging reports required for compliant billing, risk adjustment.
  • Timely, specific documentation of surgical repair vs. conservative treatment aids RAF scores.
  • Clear, concise documentation of injury mechanism improves claim processing, reduces denials.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Palpate for gap/defect Achilles tendon
  • Positive Thompson test ICD-10 S86.0
  • Decreased plantarflexion strength
  • Pain/tenderness posterior ankle
  • Consider imaging if diagnosis unclear

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Torn Achilles Tendon reimbursement hinges on accurate ICD-10 (S86.0) and CPT coding for surgical or non-surgical treatment.
  • Coding quality impacts claims denial rates. Correct laterality modifiers are crucial for proper Achilles tendon repair reimbursement.
  • Hospital quality reporting metrics like complication rates (e.g., surgical site infection) and readmissions affect overall reimbursement.
  • Accurate documentation of Achilles tendon rupture diagnosis and treatment details directly impacts payor contract negotiations and value-based care.

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 complete rupture S86.0XXA
  • Partial tear, use S86.0XXD
  • Document Thompson test result
  • Specify laterality: right, left, bilateral
  • Consider 7th character for encounter

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with complaints consistent with a suspected Achilles tendon rupture.  Onset of injury occurred while [activity causing injury, e.g., playing basketball, jumping, falling] on [date of injury].  Patient describes a sudden, sharp pain in the posterior aspect of the ankle and lower leg, sometimes described as a "pop" or "snap."  Physical examination reveals [positive or negative] Thompson test,  [palpable or non-palpable] gap in the Achilles tendon,  and [presence or absence] of ecchymosis and edema around the affected area.  Decreased plantarflexion strength and difficulty with weight-bearing are noted.  Differential diagnosis includes Achilles tendinitis, partial Achilles tendon tear, ankle sprain, and calf muscle strain.  Preliminary diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture is made based on clinical presentation and physical exam findings.  Plan includes [imaging studies ordered e.g., ultrasound, MRI] to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the tear.  Treatment options including conservative management with bracing and immobilization versus surgical repair will be discussed with the patient after imaging results are reviewed.  Patient education provided regarding Achilles tendon rupture symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.  Follow-up appointment scheduled for [date of follow-up].  ICD-10 code S86.011A (complete rupture of right Achilles tendon) or S86.012A (complete rupture of left Achilles tendon) is considered, pending imaging confirmation.  Other relevant codes may include those for pain management, physical therapy, or surgical intervention as appropriate.
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