Oth tear of lat mensc, current injury, left knee, subs

This code signifies a tear in the outer (lateral) meniscus of the left knee, which is a current injury. It indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for this specific meniscal tear, rather than initial treatment. The tear is not further specified as bucket-handle, complex, or other named types.

This code is appropriate for encounters where a patient is being seen for ongoing management, rehabilitation, or evaluation of a previously diagnosed lateral meniscus tear in the left knee. This includes visits for physical therapy, follow-up appointments after surgery, or non-surgical treatment monitoring. It should be used after the initial encounter for the injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies a "current injury" and not a chronic or old tear.
• Verify the laterality is clearly documented as "left knee."
• The 7th character "D" is crucial and indicates a subsequent encounter for this specific injury.