Chondromalacia, right shoulder

This code signifies the degenerative softening and breakdown of the articular cartilage on the posterior surface of the patella within the right shoulder joint. This condition leads to pain and crepitus, particularly with movement.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states chondromalacia affecting the right shoulder. This diagnosis is typically supported by physical examination findings, patient history of pain, and sometimes imaging studies like MRI showing cartilage changes.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "right shoulder" to use this laterality-specific code.
• Distinguish from other shoulder arthropathies; this code is specific to cartilage softening.
• Do not confuse with osteoarthritis (M19.-) unless the chondromalacia has progressed to that stage.