Other infective (teno)synovitis, unspecified wrist

This code represents an inflammatory condition of the synovial sheath surrounding tendons in the wrist, caused by an infection, when the specific wrist affected is not documented. It indicates an infection within the tendon sheath, leading to pain, swelling, and impaired function of the wrist.

Use this code for cases of infective tenosynovitis of the wrist when the medical record does not specify whether it's the right or left wrist. Documentation should clearly state "infective tenosynovitis" or "septic tenosynovitis" of the wrist, without laterality.

• Always attempt to clarify laterality (right or left wrist) with the provider if not documented, to allow for a more specific code.
• Distinguish from non-infectious tenosynovitis (e.g., M65.83- for other specified tenosynovitis).
• Code any associated infectious agent (e.g., B95-B97) as an additional diagnosis, if identified.