Recurrent dislocation, unspecified ankle

This code signifies an ankle joint that has repeatedly dislocated without a specific cause or mechanism being identified. It indicates a chronic instability of the ankle joint where the articulating surfaces have become completely separated on multiple occasions.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a history of recurrent ankle dislocations and the specific ankle (right or left) is not specified. This diagnosis is typically supported by patient history, physical examination findings of ankle instability, and potentially imaging studies confirming previous dislocations or chronic ligamentous laxity.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "recurrent" and "dislocation" for the ankle.
• If the laterality (right or left ankle) is specified, use the more specific codes M24.471 or M24.472.
• Distinguish from subluxation (M24.37-) where the joint surfaces are only partially separated.