Unspecified dislocation of left patella, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from an initial, unspecified dislocation of the left kneecap. It indicates that the original injury has resolved, but the patient continues to experience issues directly attributable to that past event.

Apply this code when documenting conditions like chronic instability, persistent pain, recurrent subluxations, or degenerative changes in the left patellofemoral joint that are a direct consequence of a previously sustained, unspecified patellar dislocation. This code is appropriate when the initial dislocation itself is no longer an active injury.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., M22.02 for recurrent dislocation of left patella).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past, unspecified left patellar dislocation.
• Do not use this code for acute or active dislocations; those require codes from the initial encounter or subsequent encounter categories.