Ankylosis, right hand

This code signifies the pathological immobility or fusion of a joint in the right hand, resulting in a stiff and often painful joint. This condition can severely limit range of motion and functional use of the affected hand. It represents a permanent or semi-permanent loss of joint movement.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states ankylosis affecting any joint within the right hand. This includes conditions like post-traumatic arthrodesis, advanced degenerative joint disease leading to fusion, or inflammatory arthritis causing joint immobility. Supporting documentation should clearly identify the right hand as the affected site.

• Differentiate from contracture (M24.5-), which is a shortening of soft tissues around a joint, not necessarily joint fusion.
• Specify the laterality; this code is exclusively for the right hand.
• Look for documentation of surgical arthrodesis, as this procedure intentionally creates ankylosis and would also warrant this diagnosis.