Congenital musculoskeletal deformities of sternocleidomastoid muscle

This code describes a birth defect affecting the sternocleidomastoid muscle, typically presenting as a shortened or fibrotic muscle. This shortening often leads to torticollis, where the infant's head is tilted to one side and rotated to the opposite side. The condition can range from mild postural preferences to severe fixed deformities.

Use this code for congenital muscular torticollis specifically involving the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Documentation should clearly indicate a congenital origin and specify the sternocleidomastoid as the affected muscle. This code is appropriate for initial diagnosis and follow-up care related to this specific congenital deformity.

• Ensure documentation specifies "congenital" and identifies the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
• Do not use for acquired torticollis; those conditions have different ICD-9-CM codes.
• Consider additional codes for associated conditions or complications, such as plagiocephaly, if documented.