Ankylosis, unspecified wrist

This code signifies the pathological fusion or stiffening of a wrist joint, resulting in a loss of mobility. It indicates a condition where the bones of the wrist have become abnormally joined, leading to restricted movement. The specific cause or nature of the ankylosis is not identified.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "ankylosis of the wrist" without further specification of the affected side (left, right, or bilateral) or the underlying etiology. This code is appropriate when the provider has diagnosed wrist ankylosis but the laterality is not documented.

• Avoid using this code if the laterality (left or right wrist) is specified; instead, use the more specific codes.
• Query the provider for clarification on the laterality if it's missing from the documentation.
• Consider additional codes for the underlying cause of the ankylosis, if known and documented (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, trauma).