Carpal tunnel syndrome, left upper limb

This code identifies carpal tunnel syndrome affecting the patient's left upper extremity. It signifies a neuropathy caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the left hand and fingers.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome specifically impacting the left side. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the patient's symptoms, physical examination findings (e.g., positive Phalen's or Tinel's sign), and potentially nerve conduction studies or electromyography confirming median nerve compression in the left wrist.

• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "left" to avoid unspecified coding.
• Do not confuse with other mononeuropathies of the upper limb; confirm median nerve involvement.
• Code any associated symptoms (e.g., pain, numbness) if they are not integral to the carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis or if the provider specifies them as distinct.