Loose body in unspecified shoulder

This code signifies the presence of a detached fragment of bone, cartilage, or other tissue within the joint capsule of an unspecified shoulder. These loose bodies can cause pain, clicking, locking, or restricted range of motion.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a loose body in the shoulder joint, but the specific shoulder (right or left) is not specified. This is often an initial finding before laterality is determined or when the provider explicitly states "unspecified shoulder."

• Avoid using this code if the laterality (right or left shoulder) is documented; instead, use the more specific M24.011 or M24.012.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "loose body" or a similar term (e.g., "joint mouse," "osteochondral fragment") within the shoulder joint.
• This code is typically a primary diagnosis when the loose body is the reason for the encounter, or a secondary diagnosis if it's an incidental finding contributing to other shoulder pathology.