Primary osteoarthritis, unspecified wrist

This code signifies degenerative joint disease affecting an unspecified wrist, where the osteoarthritis is not secondary to another condition. It represents the idiopathic form of cartilage breakdown and bone changes within the wrist joint.

Apply this code when documentation confirms primary osteoarthritis of the wrist, but the specific laterality (right or left) is not specified. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing wrist pain, stiffness, and imaging findings consistent with primary osteoarthritis without an identified underlying cause.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "primary" or "idiopathic" osteoarthritis; otherwise, consider secondary osteoarthritis codes.
• Avoid using this code if laterality (right or left wrist) is documented; instead, select the more specific M19.031 or M19.032.
• Do not confuse with codes for post-traumatic arthritis or other specified forms of wrist arthropathy.