Secondary osteoarthritis, unspecified shoulder

This code represents degenerative joint disease of the shoulder that develops as a consequence of another underlying condition, rather than primary age-related wear and tear. The specific cause of the secondary osteoarthritis is not documented or is unknown, and the affected shoulder (left or right) is also unspecified.

Use this code when documentation indicates osteoarthritis of the shoulder that is explicitly stated as secondary, but the etiology (e.g., trauma, inflammatory arthritis, avascular necrosis) is not specified. This code is also appropriate when the medical record does not clearly distinguish between the left or right shoulder.

• Avoid using this code if the underlying cause of the secondary osteoarthritis is known; instead, code the specific type of secondary osteoarthritis (e.g., post-traumatic, due to other arthropathy).
• Always strive for laterality (left or right shoulder) if documented. If not specified, this "unspecified" code is appropriate.
• Do not confuse with primary osteoarthritis (M19.0-) which is age-related and not due to another underlying condition.