Eli's Rehab Report

Reader Question:

Code ROM-Loss Symptoms

Question: If a patient has range-of-motion (ROM) loss, should we report 719.5x (Stiffness of joint) or 718.4x Contracture of joint)?

New York Subscriber

Answer: The answer depends on your patient's other symptoms, because many conditions can cause range-of-motion loss. Apatient with a back injury or broken leg may experience a decreased range of motion, so you should examine the physician's documentation to determine what may have caused the range-of-motion loss.

For instance, a patient's chart states, "Range of motion in patient's left leg decreased 20 percent since last visit; osteoarthritis is suspected due to family history, ROM loss, stiff joints, and pain on bending knee." In this case, you should report all of the confirmed symptoms: 719.56 (Stiffness of joint; lower leg), 719.46 (Pain in joint; lower leg), and V17.7 (Family history of arthritis).

 

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