Osteochondritis dissecans, right knee

This code identifies a specific condition affecting the right knee where a segment of cartilage and underlying bone detaches or becomes loose. This osteochondral lesion typically results from repetitive stress or trauma, leading to pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms within the joint.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of osteochondritis dissecans affecting the right knee. This is appropriate for both initial encounters and subsequent care for this specific condition. Supporting documentation should include imaging reports (e.g., X-ray, MRI) confirming the lesion's presence and location.

• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "right knee" to support this specific code.
• Do not confuse with general osteoarthritis or other degenerative knee conditions; this code is for a distinct osteochondral lesion.
• Look for documentation specifying the stage of osteochondritis dissecans (e.g., stable, unstable, detached fragment) as this may impact treatment but not the primary diagnosis code.