Patellofemoral disorders, right knee

This code signifies a range of conditions affecting the patellofemoral joint of the right knee, including patellar maltracking, chondromalacia patellae, and patellar instability. These disorders typically involve pain, crepitus, and functional limitations arising from abnormal interaction between the kneecap and the trochlear groove of the femur.

Apply this code when documentation specifies a patellofemoral disorder impacting the right knee. This includes diagnoses such as patellofemoral pain syndrome, anterior knee pain attributed to patellar dysfunction, or early degenerative changes of the patellofemoral joint. Supporting documentation should clearly indicate the laterality and the nature of the patellofemoral pathology.

• Ensure laterality (right knee) is explicitly documented.
• Distinguish from other knee disorders, such as meniscal tears or ligamentous injuries, which have separate codes.
• If the specific type of patellofemoral disorder is known (e.g., chondromalacia patellae), a more specific code within the M22 category may be available and should be used if supported by documentation.