S63.131 Subluxation of proximal interphalangeal joint of right thumb

ICD-10-CM Code S63.131: Subluxation of proximal interphalangeal joint of right thumb

ICD-10-CM code S63.131 identifies a subluxation of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the right thumb. Clinical literature indicates that proximal interphalangeal joint injuries can be highly disabling, resulting in prolonged pain and stiffness. This reference page synthesizes public coding and clinical sources to explain the code structure and clinical context without providing personal medical advice. 1 2 3

Plain-language overview

Code S63.131 is listed in clinical coding references to identify a subluxation of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the right thumb. This code is distinct from codes for left thumb or unspecified thumb injuries. 3

What this code represents

Code S63.131 is categorized under the broader grouping S63.13, which covers subluxation and dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the thumb. The S63.131 code specifically denotes a subluxation rather than a dislocation of the right thumb. 3

Coding details

The coding structure separates right thumb subluxations from right thumb dislocations, with S63.131 representing subluxation and S63.134 representing dislocation. The structure also distinguishes right thumb proximal interphalangeal subluxations from right thumb distal interphalangeal subluxations. 3

Clinical context

Proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations are described as among the most disabling finger injuries, often resulting in prolonged pain, stiffness, and long-term functional impairment. The clinical literature also notes that these injuries can lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. 1

Fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint of fingers are described as challenging injuries that usually lead to residual pain and stiffness. The management of unstable fracture-dislocations of this joint is noted to be a conundrum for hand surgeons. 2

Documentation considerations

The S63 category listing includes separate codes for the right thumb, left thumb, and unspecified thumb, as well as for specific fingers. The presence of these distinct codes indicates that laterality and the specific digit are documented elements used to differentiate the selected code. 3

What the sources add

The clinical sources describe the severity and functional impairment of proximal interphalangeal joint injuries, while the coding source provides the specific alphanumeric structure used to classify these injuries. Together, they show that S63.131 is the code for right thumb subluxation within a broader context of severe finger injuries. 1 2 3

The coding source lists S63.131 alongside S63.121, which represents subluxation of an unspecified interphalangeal joint of the right thumb. This comparison shows that the coding structure differentiates between injuries to the proximal versus unspecified interphalangeal joints. 3

Sources

1. A 16-Year Longitudinal Study of Long-term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes in Dorsal Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture-Dislocations — pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; accessed 2026-07-26.
2. Treatment of Fracture-Dislocations of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint by Applying of Dynamic Mini External Fixator: Clinical and Radiographic Results — pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; accessed 2026-07-26.
3. Common ICD-10 Codes: Sports — apta.org; accessed 2026-07-26.