Plica syndrome, left knee

This code represents an inflammatory condition of the synovial plica within the left knee joint. Plica syndrome occurs when a normal fold of the joint lining (plica) becomes irritated, thickened, or inflamed, leading to pain and mechanical symptoms. It is a specific type of internal derangement of the knee.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of plica syndrome affecting the left knee. Supporting documentation should include clinical findings such as localized pain, clicking, catching, or tenderness along the medial or suprapatellar plica, often confirmed by physical examination or imaging.

• Ensure the laterality is clearly documented as "left knee" to support this specific code.
• Do not confuse with other knee derangements like meniscal tears or loose bodies; plica syndrome is distinct.
• If the plica syndrome affects the right knee, a different laterality-specific code would be assigned.