Lateral dislocation of left patella, sequela

This code signifies a past lateral displacement of the left kneecap that has resulted in a long-term complication or residual effect. This is not for an acute dislocation, but rather for problems arising months or years after the initial injury has healed. Examples of sequelae include chronic instability, recurrent pain, or degenerative changes directly attributable to the prior dislocation.

Apply this code when a patient presents with ongoing symptoms or conditions of the left knee that are a direct consequence of a previously treated lateral patellar dislocation. This would be appropriate for follow-up visits addressing chronic pain, stiffness, or functional limitations linked to the old injury. Do not use for the initial or subsequent acute dislocation events.

• Always ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a prior left lateral patellar dislocation.
• This code requires an additional code to specify the nature of the sequela (e.g., M24.562 for contracture, M17.12 for post-traumatic osteoarthritis).
• Distinguish carefully between acute, subsequent, and sequela encounters; each has distinct coding guidelines.