Secondary osteoarthritis, unspecified site

This code signifies osteoarthritis that develops as a consequence of another underlying condition, injury, or disease process, rather than arising spontaneously. It indicates that the specific joint or anatomical location affected by the secondary osteoarthritis is not documented or is unknown.

Use this code when the medical record clearly states "secondary osteoarthritis" but does not specify the affected joint (e.g., "secondary osteoarthritis, site unspecified"). This code is appropriate when the provider has not identified the primary cause or the specific joint involved.

• Avoid using this code if a more specific anatomical site for the secondary osteoarthritis is documented (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder).
• Always query the provider for a more specific site if possible, as this code represents a less precise diagnosis.
• Do not confuse with primary osteoarthritis (M15-M19.90) or post-traumatic osteoarthritis (a type of secondary osteoarthritis that would be coded to a more specific site).