Recurrent dislocation, unspecified wrist

This code signifies a wrist joint that repeatedly dislocates without a specified cause or laterality. It indicates an instability where the bones of the wrist separate from their normal alignment on multiple occasions.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "recurrent wrist dislocation" without further specification of the wrist (e.g., right or left) or the specific type of dislocation. This is appropriate for chronic wrist instability cases where the patient experiences repeated episodes of the joint coming out of place.

• Do not use this code for an initial or acute dislocation; refer to codes in the S63.0-S63.2 series for acute wrist dislocations.
• Always attempt to clarify laterality (right/left) with the provider to use a more specific code (M24.431 or M24.432) if possible.
• Ensure the documentation supports the "recurrent" nature of the dislocation, not just a single event.