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Swelling of leg vs localized swelling of leg

N

ny2scgirl

Networker
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78
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Myrtle Beach, SC
According to the Index for Swelling of... there are two different choices for leg
1. leg M79.89
2. localized (skin) limb lower - see Mass, localized, limb, lower

My question is what is localized and what isn't? If the provider states, the swelling is the left leg then in my mind that is localized because it affects the left leg only, but according to what I am researching M79.89 is the appropriate answer. Localized definition states 'Restricted or limited to a definite part', then why can't left leg be considered localized? What am I missing?

Thank you for your help
 
The key distinction is that "localized" does not simply mean one side of the body (left vs right). It generally means the swelling is confined to a specific focal area or discrete site within the limb (for example: calf, ankle, shin, or a documented mass/lump). So if the provider documents "left leg swelling," that describes laterality, but not necessarily a localized site within the leg. In that case, M79.89 may be more appropriate unless documentation identifies a specific focal area. If documentation instead states something like "localized swelling of left calf" or "left ankle mass/swelling," then the R22.4x category may fit better. Also, if the provider specifically documents edema rather than just swelling, it may be worth reviewing the R60.- edema codes as well, depending on documentation.
 
ole16 said:
The key distinction is that "localized" does not simply mean one side of the body (left vs right). It generally means the swelling is confined to a specific focal area or discrete site within the limb (for example: calf, ankle, shin, or a documented mass/lump). So if the provider documents "left leg swelling," that describes laterality, but not necessarily a localized site within the leg. In that case, M79.89 may be more appropriate unless documentation identifies a specific focal area. If documentation instead states something like "localized swelling of left calf" or "left ankle mass/swelling," then the R22.4x category may fit better. Also, if the provider specifically documents edema rather than just swelling, it may be worth reviewing the R60.- edema codes as well, depending on documentation.
Click to expand...

Thank you! That makes sense to me.
 
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