Other infective (teno)synovitis, left knee

This code signifies an inflammatory condition affecting the synovial lining of the tendon sheath or joint capsule, specifically in the left knee, caused by an infectious agent other than those specified in more granular codes. It indicates an infection leading to inflammation within the tenosynovial structures of the left knee joint.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an infective tenosynovitis of the left knee, and the specific pathogen is not identified or is not one for which a more specific code exists. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the diagnosis, laterality (left knee), and evidence of infection (e.g., positive cultures, elevated inflammatory markers, purulent exudate).

• Always confirm laterality; this code is specific to the left knee.
• If the specific infectious organism is known, a secondary code from B95-B97 should be used to identify the bacterial or viral agent.
• Differentiate from non-infective tenosynovitis (M65.862) or other forms of synovitis (M65.962) based on documentation of an infectious etiology.