Unil post-trauma osteoarth of 1st carpometacarp jt, l hand

This code signifies degenerative joint disease affecting the base of the thumb on the left hand, specifically resulting from a prior injury. It indicates that the osteoarthritis is confined to one side (unilateral) and is a direct consequence of trauma to the first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the left first CMC joint. This is appropriate for patients presenting with pain, stiffness, and reduced function in the left thumb base following a documented injury (e.g., fracture, dislocation, sprain) to that joint.

• Ensure documentation specifies "post-traumatic" and laterality (left hand).
• Do not use for primary (idiopathic) osteoarthritis or osteoarthritis due to other causes (e.g., inflammatory arthritis).
• Code any associated acute injury that led to the post-traumatic condition, if still being treated, following sequencing guidelines.