The diagnosis code M17.11 is a critical component of the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) system. Specifically, M17.11 is used by healthcare professionals and medical coders to classify and document unilateral primary osteoarthritis of the right knee. This code is essential for accurate medical billing, statistical tracking, and patient record-keeping.
Decoding M17.11: Unilateral Primary Osteoarthritis, Right Knee
M17.11 is a billable and specific code within the ICD-10-CM framework. This means it’s precise enough to be used for reimbursement purposes, clearly indicating a diagnosis of unilateral primary osteoarthritis affecting only the right knee. Let’s break down what each part of this diagnosis code signifies:
- M17: This is the primary category within ICD-10-CM, classifying “Osteoarthritis of knee.” This broad category encompasses various forms of knee osteoarthritis.
- M17.1: This subcategory narrows it down to “Unilateral primary osteoarthritis of knee,” indicating that the osteoarthritis is primary (not secondary to injury or another condition) and affects only one knee.
- M17.11: The final two digits specify the exact location: “Unilateral primary osteoarthritis, right knee.” This provides the highest level of specificity, confirming the right knee as the affected joint.
This level of detail is crucial for healthcare providers and insurance processes. Using M17.11, medical professionals can accurately document and communicate the patient’s condition.
Synonyms and Clinical Context of Diagnosis Code M17.11
While diagnosis code M17.11 is precise, several terms are used interchangeably in clinical practice to describe the same condition. These approximate synonyms include:
- Arthritis of the right knee
- Osteoarthritis of the right knee
- Primary localized osteoarthritis of the right knee
- Osteoarthritis of right knee patellofemoral joint
- Osteoarthritis of right patellofemoral joints
These terms all point to the same underlying condition captured by diagnosis code M17.11: the degeneration of joint cartilage in the right knee, specifically due to primary osteoarthritis. Primary osteoarthritis means the condition arises spontaneously, typically due to age and wear-and-tear, rather than being caused by a specific injury or underlying disease.
M17.11 in Medical Coding and History
The diagnosis code M17.11 became effective in 2015 with the implementation of ICD-10-CM. It’s important to note that codes like M17.11 are updated annually. The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM, including M17.11, became effective on October 1, 2024. While there have been no changes to M17.11 itself since its inception, healthcare providers must always use the most current code set for accurate billing and coding.
Prior to ICD-10-CM, diagnoses like unilateral primary osteoarthritis of the right knee were coded using ICD-9-CM. Understanding the transition to ICD-10-CM and utilizing specific codes like diagnosis code M17.11 is vital for accurate and compliant medical documentation and reimbursement processes in today’s healthcare landscape. For claims with a service date on or after October 1, 2015, ICD-10-CM codes are mandatory.
