Secondary osteoarthritis, left shoulder

This code signifies degenerative joint disease of the left shoulder that has developed as a consequence of another underlying condition, such as trauma, infection, or inflammatory arthritis. It indicates cartilage breakdown and bone changes in the glenohumeral joint, specifically affecting the patient's left side.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "secondary osteoarthritis" or "post-traumatic arthritis" of the left shoulder. It is appropriate when the etiology of the osteoarthritis is explicitly linked to a prior injury, disease, or other identifiable cause affecting the shoulder joint.

• Ensure documentation specifies "secondary" or an underlying cause for the osteoarthritis.
• Distinguish from primary osteoarthritis (M19.0XX) where no specific cause is identified.
• Laterality is crucial; confirm "left shoulder" is documented.