Bi post-trauma osteoarth of first carpometacarp joints

This code signifies degenerative joint disease affecting both first carpometacarpal (CMC) joints, specifically resulting from a prior injury. It describes the chronic, painful arthritis that develops in the thumb bases due to trauma.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates osteoarthritis of both thumb CMC joints with a confirmed history of trauma to these joints. This diagnosis is typically supported by imaging studies showing degenerative changes and a patient history detailing a relevant injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, a unilateral code may be more appropriate.
• Confirm the "post-traumatic" etiology is explicitly stated or clearly implied by the clinical history.
• Do not confuse with primary osteoarthritis (M18.1-) or other specified secondary osteoarthritis (M18.3-).