Arthropathy of unspecified temporomandibular joint

This code signifies a non-inflammatory disorder affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), where the specific cause or nature of the joint disease is not documented. It indicates a general pathology of the TMJ without further specification of laterality or etiology.

Apply this code when documentation confirms an arthropathy of the TMJ but does not specify whether it affects the left, right, or bilateral joints, nor does it provide a more precise diagnosis like osteoarthritis, internal derangement, or ankylosis. This code is appropriate when the provider's notes simply state "TMJ arthropathy" without further detail.

• Avoid using this code if laterality (left, right, bilateral) is documented; instead, choose a more specific code.
• Do not use if a more specific TMJ disorder, such as osteoarthritis (M19.xx) or internal derangement (M26.62x), is identified.
• Query the provider for more specific documentation regarding laterality and etiology if possible to allow for a more precise code assignment.