The M75.121 Diagnosis Code is a critical component of the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) system. Specifically, M75.121 refers to a complete rotator cuff tear or rupture of the right shoulder, which is not specified as traumatic in origin. This code is used by healthcare professionals for diagnosis and insurance reimbursement purposes, particularly in the United States.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the M75.121 code, its implications, and related information relevant to medical coding and diagnostics. Understanding this code is essential for accurate record-keeping, appropriate treatment planning, and efficient healthcare administration.
Decoding M75.121: Complete Rotator Cuff Tear, Right Shoulder
M75.121 is a billable and specific code within the ICD-10-CM system, meaning it is precise enough for use in claim submissions. Let’s break down what each part of the code signifies:
- M75: This category within ICD-10-CM denotes “Shoulder lesions” and encompasses a range of shoulder disorders.
- M75.12: This more specific subcategory refers to “Complete rotator cuff tear or rupture, not specified as traumatic”. This indicates that the tear is not partial but complete, and it’s not attributed to a specific injury or trauma.
- M75.121: The final digit ‘1’ specifies the right shoulder as the location of the complete rotator cuff tear.
Therefore, M75.121 clearly and concisely communicates a complete, non-traumatic rotator cuff tear in the right shoulder. It’s important to note that this code is distinct from codes for incomplete tears or tears caused by trauma.
Synonyms and Related Terms for M75.121
To further clarify the meaning of M75.121, here are some approximate synonyms and related terms that may be used interchangeably in medical contexts:
- Non-traumatic complete rupture of rotator cuff of right shoulder
- Nontraumatic complete right rotator cuff tear
- Complete rotator cuff tear of right shoulder, not due to injury
- Spontaneous rotator cuff rupture of right shoulder
These terms all describe the same clinical condition captured by the M75.121 diagnosis code. It’s also worth noting the existence of related codes within the ICD-10-CM system, such as:
- M75.122: Complete rotator cuff tear or rupture of left shoulder, not specified as traumatic
- M75.120: Complete rotator cuff tear or rupture of unspecified shoulder, not specified as traumatic
- M75.111: Incomplete rotator cuff tear or rupture of right shoulder, not specified as traumatic
Understanding these adjacent codes helps to differentiate M75.121 and ensure the most accurate code is used based on the specific diagnosis.
History and Application of M75.121
The M75.121 code has been a part of the ICD-10-CM system since 2016, with the first effective date being October 1, 2015. It has remained unchanged through the 2025 edition, effective October 1, 2024. This stability is crucial for consistent medical coding and data tracking over time.
For healthcare providers in the United States, using ICD-10-CM codes like M75.121 is mandatory for all reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015. Accurate application of this code ensures proper billing and facilitates the collection of valuable epidemiological data related to rotator cuff injuries.
In conclusion, the M75.121 diagnosis code is a precise and essential tool for classifying and documenting complete, non-traumatic rotator cuff tears of the right shoulder. Its detailed nature within the ICD-10-CM system supports effective communication in healthcare, accurate billing processes, and comprehensive analysis of shoulder pathologies.
