Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: What ICD-9 code should I report for intersection syndrome of the wrist? Michigan Subscriber Answer: Your best option is 726.4 (Enthesopathy of wrist and carpus). Here's why: One of many other terms for intersection syndrome is abductor pollicis longus bursitis, and ICD-9 includes wrist bursitis under 726.4. Other terms you may see for this overuse syndrome include peritendinitis crepitans, crossover tendinitis, squeaker's wrist, or oarsman's wrist. The condition typically develops where the wrist's first dorsal compartment muscles cross the second dorsal compartment muscles.