Bucket-hndl tear of unsp mensc, current injury, r knee, init

This code signifies a severe, acute injury to the right knee's meniscus, characterized by a "bucket-handle" tear. This type of tear involves a longitudinal tear where the inner portion of the meniscus displaces into the joint space, often causing significant mechanical symptoms. The specific meniscus (medial or lateral) is not identified in this particular code.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed bucket-handle tear of an unspecified meniscus in the right knee. This is appropriate for the initial visit where the injury is first evaluated and treatment is planned. It indicates the injury is recent and not a chronic condition.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies a "bucket-handle" tear and the right knee.
• Use this code only for the initial encounter for this specific injury. Subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• If the specific meniscus (medial or lateral) is documented, a more specific code should be chosen.