Staphylococcal arthritis, left ankle and foot

This code signifies an inflammatory joint condition of the left ankle and foot caused by a Staphylococcal bacterial infection. This type of arthritis is characterized by acute joint pain, swelling, warmth, and restricted movement due to the bacterial invasion of the synovial fluid and joint structures.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of Staphylococcal arthritis affecting the left ankle and/or foot. This typically follows positive joint fluid cultures or other diagnostic tests confirming Staphylococcus as the causative agent in a patient presenting with symptoms of septic arthritis in the specified anatomical location.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "Staphylococcal" as the causative organism, not just general "septic arthritis."
• Verify the laterality is clearly documented as "left" and the affected site includes the "ankle and foot."
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated complications or underlying conditions.