Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, unsp shoulder

This diagnosis code signifies a non-traumatic tear of the extensor tendons in an unspecified shoulder. This typically occurs due to degenerative changes within the tendon, rather than an acute injury or external force. Patients often present with sudden pain, weakness, and difficulty with shoulder extension.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a spontaneous (non-traumatic) rupture of the extensor tendons of the shoulder, and the specific shoulder (left or right) is not documented. This code is appropriate when the physician's notes describe a degenerative tear without an identifiable acute injury mechanism.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "spontaneous" or "non-traumatic" to differentiate from acute traumatic ruptures.
• Avoid using this code if the laterality (left or right shoulder) is specified; instead, use the more specific codes M66.211 or M66.212.
• Do not confuse with rotator cuff tears (M75.1-), as extensor tendons are distinct from the rotator cuff.