Other instability, right knee

This code signifies an abnormal looseness or giving way of the right knee joint, not due to a recent injury or specific ligament tear classified elsewhere. It indicates a chronic or recurrent instability that impairs normal joint function.

Apply this code when documentation specifies chronic or recurrent instability of the right knee without a more specific diagnosis like a meniscal tear, ligamentous disruption (e.g., ACL, PCL), or patellar instability. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing subjective complaints of the knee "giving out" or feeling loose, and objective findings of excessive joint play on physical examination.

• Ensure laterality is clearly documented as "right knee."
• Distinguish from acute instability due to a specific traumatic event, which would typically be coded with an S-code.
• Do not use for patellar instability (e.g., M23.8X1), which has its own specific codes.