Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, left lower leg

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a non-traumatic tear of the extensor tendons located in the lower portion of the left leg. This rupture occurs without an external force or injury, often due to underlying degenerative changes or inflammatory processes within the tendon.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a spontaneous (non-traumatic) rupture of an extensor tendon in the left lower leg. This typically involves conditions like tendinopathy or chronic inflammation leading to tendon failure. Supporting documentation should specify the laterality and the spontaneous nature of the rupture.

💡Coding Tips

Differentiate from traumatic ruptures (S86.012A-S86.999A series), which are caused by an external injury.
Ensure the documentation specifies "spontaneous" or "non-traumatic" to justify using this M-code.
Verify laterality (left lower leg) is explicitly stated; separate codes exist for the right and unspecified sides.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲M66.26Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, lower leg

M66.262(current)

Crosswalks

727.66ApproxICD-9

Same Category

M66Spontaneous rupture of synovium and tendon M66.0Rupture of popliteal cyst M66.1Rupture of synovium M66.10Rupture of synovium, unspecified joint M66.11Rupture of synovium, shoulder