ICD-10 Code M00.061 – Staphylococcal arthritis, right knee (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.061 – Staphylococcal arthritis, right knee
What it is
This code identifies a staphylococcal infection of the right knee joint causing septic arthritis. Use it when documentation states the organism is Staphylococcus and the affected joint is the right knee.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an acutely painful, swollen, warm knee with limited range of motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmed joint infection and organism identification.
When to use this code
Use M00.061 when the provider documents staphylococcal septic arthritis involving the right knee, or when culture or clinical documentation clearly identifies Staphylococcus as the cause. Code the right knee specifically, not a nonspecific joint.
If the record only says septic arthritis without the organism, check documentation before assigning this code. You should also confirm laterality, since this code applies only to the right knee.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, generalized joint pain, or septic arthritis caused by another organism. Check documentation if the organism or joint laterality is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify both the organism and laterality in the note or culture report before coding M00.061.