Compartment Syndrome ICD-10-CM Codes
Read this short guide and learn about compartment syndrome ICD codes you can use.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What compartment syndrome ICD codes can I use?
If you’re looking for compartment syndrome ICD codes to use, we’d like you to know that there are a lot. There are too many to list here, so we will list down seven examples of what you can use to give you an idea of what these codes can cover:
- T79.A0XA - Compartment syndrome, unspecified, initial encounter
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have compartment syndrome, but it’s unspecified if it’s traumatic or non-traumatic. It also has the initial encounter label, meaning they are receiving active treatment.
- T79.A0XD - Compartment syndrome, unspecified, subsequent encounter
This is the same as Item 1, but this time, there’s a subsequent encounter label. This means the patient is in recovery but is still being given routine care for the problem.
- T79.A0XS - Compartment syndrome, unspecified, sequela
This is the same as Item 1, but there’s a sequela label this time. This means the patient is dealing with the aftereffects of the problem. Since it has this label, it must be accompanied by two other ICD-10 codes. One should designate the sequela’s nature, while the other should describe the sequela (meaning its effects).
- M79.A19 - Nontraumatic compartment syndrome of unspecified upper extremity
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have a non-traumatic compartment syndrome in their upper extremities, but the specific part of the upper extremities is not specified.
- M79.A29 - Nontraumatic compartment syndrome of unspecified lower extremity
This is the same as Item 4, but it’s for an unspecified part of the lower extremities this time.
- T79.A19A - Traumatic compartment syndrome of unspecified upper extremity, initial encounter
This is the same as Item 4, but the compartment syndrome is traumatic this time. It also has the initial encounter label.
- T79.A29A - Traumatic compartment syndrome of unspecified lower extremity, initial encounter
This is the same as Item 6, but it’s for an unspecified part of the lower extremities this time.
Do note that there are more codes, many of which specify what body part has compartment syndrome. They will also likely have the initial encounter, subsequent encounter, and sequela labels.
Which of these compartment syndrome ICD codes are billable?
All of the aforementioned compartment syndrome-related ICD-10 codes are valid and billable.
Clinical information about compartment syndrome:
Compartment Syndrome is a condition characterized by increased pressure in and around muscles. This pressure can cause pain and become a dangerous hindrance to the body because it might limit or prevent the flow of oxygen, blood, and nutrients to our muscles and nerves. At worst, it can cause damage to these muscles and nerves and may even lead to death.
Compartment Syndrome has two types: acute and chronic. Accidents cause Acute Compartment Syndrome. This is where the traumatic compartment syndrome ICD codes fall. This type requires immediate care, considering it is caused by a traumatic injury/accident. If not addressed as soon as possible, the patient’s muscles might be damaged beyond repair, leading to unwanted problems like becoming disabled/paralyzed or death.
As for Chronic Compartment Syndrome, the culprit for this is just physically overexerting yourself and overexercising. This is where the non-traumatic ICD codes fall.
If a person has Compartment Syndrome, they will likely have the following symptoms:
- There will be tightness in the affected muscle and the surrounding area
- There will be pain in the affected area as well as a tingling or burning sensation
- The affected area might become numb
- The affected area might become swollen, or at least it’ll feel like it’s swollen
Synonyms include:
- Compartment syndrome
- Nontraumatic compartment syndrome of upper limb
- Anterior tibial compartment syndrome
- Compartment syndrome of lower leg
- Compartment syndrome of lower limb
- Nontraumatic compartment syndrome of lower limb
- Compartment syndrome of forearm
- Compartment syndrome of hand
- Compartment syndrome of upper arm
- Compartment syndrome of upper limb
Commonly asked questions
Yes. There are a lot more compartment syndrome ICD codes.
Healthcare professionals will conduct physical examinations and pressure tests. They may also use X-rays or other imaging tests to check for fractures or traumatic injuries, just in case.
That depends on how serious it is. If it’s chronic/non-traumatic, treatment can involve adjusting exercises to something light, taking anti-inflammatory medicine, and taking physical therapy. If it’s acute/traumatic, healthcare professionals will likely resort to surgery to relieve the muscles from pressure.
