Unspecified subluxation of left patella, initial encounter

This code signifies an incomplete dislocation of the left kneecap where the patella has moved out of its normal groove but has not fully separated from the femur. The specific type or cause of the subluxation is not documented or known at the time of the initial assessment.

Use this code for a patient presenting with symptoms of a left patellar subluxation, such as pain, swelling, or instability, when the physician's documentation does not specify the type (e.g., recurrent, traumatic) or laterality beyond "left." This code is appropriate for the initial visit for this condition.

• Ensure documentation clearly indicates "left" patella and that the encounter is the patient's first for this specific injury.
• If the type of subluxation (e.g., recurrent, traumatic) is later identified, a more specific code should be used for subsequent encounters.
• Do not use if the patella is fully dislocated; refer to codes for dislocation (S83.1-).