Post-traumatic osteoarthritis, right ankle and foot

This code signifies degenerative joint disease of the right ankle and/or foot that has developed as a direct consequence of a prior injury to the joint. It indicates a secondary form of osteoarthritis, where the initial trauma has led to the breakdown of articular cartilage and subsequent joint changes.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links the patient's right ankle/foot osteoarthritis to a specific past traumatic event, such as a fracture, sprain, or dislocation. The medical record should explicitly state "post-traumatic osteoarthritis" or provide a clear history of trauma preceding the onset of osteoarthritis symptoms in the right ankle/foot.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "post-traumatic" and not just general osteoarthritis.
• Verify the laterality is explicitly "right" for the ankle and/or foot.
• Consider sequencing an external cause code (V00-Y99) if the original traumatic event is still relevant and being treated.