Charcot's joint, right knee

This code signifies a neuropathic arthropathy affecting the right knee, characterized by progressive joint destruction due to loss of proprioception and pain sensation. It results from underlying neurological conditions that impair the joint's protective reflexes, leading to instability, deformity, and often severe degenerative changes.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "Charcot's joint" or "neuropathic arthropathy" affecting the right knee. This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical findings of joint instability, swelling, deformity, and imaging evidence of bone and joint destruction in a patient with a predisposing neurological condition (e.g., diabetes, syphilis, spinal cord injury).

• Always code the underlying neurological condition first, as Charcot's joint is a manifestation of that primary disease.
• Ensure laterality is clearly documented and accurately coded; this code specifies the right knee.
• Distinguish from other forms of osteoarthritis (e.g., M17.-) which lack the neuropathic etiology.