Nursemaid's elbow, unspecified elbow, initial encounter

This diagnosis code signifies a subluxation of the radial head, commonly known as nursemaid's elbow, where the specific elbow (left or right) is not documented. It occurs when the radial head slips out of the annular ligament, often due to a sudden pull on the forearm.

This code is appropriate for the initial visit when a patient presents with symptoms consistent with nursemaid's elbow, and the medical record does not specify which elbow is affected. It is typically seen in young children after a traction injury to the arm.

• Only use this code when the laterality of the affected elbow is truly unspecified in the documentation.
• Ensure the encounter is indeed the "initial encounter" for this specific injury.
• Look for documentation of a reduction procedure, which would be coded separately.