ICD-10: M67.52

Plica syndrome, particularly in the context of the left knee, is a condition that arises from irritation or inflammation of the plica, a remnant of embryonic tissue in the knee joint. This condition can lead to various clinical presentations, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics that are essential for diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Plica syndrome typically presents with knee pain that may be exacerbated by certain activities. Patients often report a history of knee trauma or repetitive stress, which can contribute to the development of symptoms. The pain is usually localized around the medial aspect of the knee, where the medial plica is located, but it can also radiate to other areas of the knee.

Common Symptoms

1. Knee Pain: The most prominent symptom, often described as a sharp or aching pain, particularly during activities such as squatting, climbing stairs, or prolonged sitting.
2. Swelling: Mild swelling may occur in the knee joint, particularly after activity.
3. Clicking or Popping Sensation: Patients may experience a sensation of clicking or popping in the knee, especially when moving from a flexed to an extended position.
4. Stiffness: Some patients report stiffness in the knee, particularly after periods of inactivity.
5. Instability: Although less common, some individuals may feel a sense of instability in the knee joint.

Signs on Physical Examination

During a physical examination, healthcare providers may observe the following signs:

• Tenderness: Localized tenderness over the medial aspect of the knee, where the plica is located.
• Range of Motion: Limited range of motion may be noted, particularly in flexion and extension.
• Positive Plica Test: A specific test may elicit pain or a clicking sensation when the knee is flexed and extended while applying pressure to the medial aspect of the knee.
• Swelling: Mild effusion may be present, indicating inflammation within the joint.

Patient Characteristics

Plica syndrome can affect individuals of various ages, but certain characteristics are more commonly associated with this condition:

• Age: It is often seen in younger, active individuals, particularly those involved in sports or activities that place repetitive stress on the knee.
• Activity Level: Patients are frequently those who engage in high-impact sports or activities that require frequent knee bending, such as running, cycling, or jumping.
• Gender: There may be a slight male predominance in cases of plica syndrome, although it can affect both genders.
• History of Knee Injury: Many patients report a previous knee injury or trauma, which may predispose them to developing plica syndrome.

Conclusion

Plica syndrome of the left knee (ICD-10 code M67.52) is characterized by specific clinical presentations, including localized knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms such as clicking. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

Plica syndrome, specifically coded as M67.52 in the ICD-10-CM classification, refers to a condition affecting the knee joint, particularly the left knee. This syndrome is characterized by irritation or inflammation of the plica, which is a fold of synovial membrane within the knee joint. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this condition.

Clinical Description of Plica Syndrome

Definition and Anatomy

Plica syndrome occurs when a remnant of the synovial membrane, known as a plica, becomes irritated or inflamed. The knee joint contains several plicae, which are normal anatomical structures that can be present in varying degrees. In some individuals, these plicae may become symptomatic due to overuse, trauma, or other knee pathologies, leading to pain and discomfort.

Symptoms

Patients with plica syndrome typically present with the following symptoms:
- Knee Pain: Often localized to the medial aspect of the knee, but can also be felt in other areas.
- Swelling: Mild swelling may occur around the knee joint.
- Clicking or Popping Sensation: Patients may report a sensation of clicking or popping during knee movement, particularly when bending or straightening the knee.
- Limited Range of Motion: In some cases, the range of motion may be restricted due to pain or mechanical blockage from the plica.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of plica syndrome involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Key diagnostic steps include:
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion.
- Imaging: MRI or ultrasound may be utilized to visualize the plica and assess for any associated injuries or abnormalities in the knee joint.

Treatment Options

Management of plica syndrome typically begins with conservative measures, including:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that exacerbate symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and stretching to improve knee function and alleviate pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.

In cases where conservative treatment fails, more invasive options may be considered:
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation.
- Surgical Intervention: Arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to remove the symptomatic plica if conservative measures do not provide relief.

Coding and Classification

The ICD-10-CM code M67.52 specifically denotes "Plica syndrome, left knee." This code is part of the broader category of disorders affecting the synovium and tendon (M67), which encompasses various conditions related to synovial tissue abnormalities. Accurate coding is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and insurance reimbursement.

Future Considerations

As of 2025, the coding for plica syndrome remains consistent, and healthcare providers should stay updated on any changes in coding guidelines or clinical practices related to this condition. Proper documentation and coding are crucial for effective patient management and healthcare delivery.

In summary, plica syndrome of the left knee (ICD-10 code M67.52) is a condition that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are key to alleviating symptoms and restoring knee function.

Plica syndrome, particularly in the context of the left knee, is identified by the ICD-10-CM code M67.52. This condition is characterized by irritation or inflammation of the plica, a fold in the synovial membrane of the knee joint. Understanding alternative names and related terms can enhance clarity in medical documentation and communication. Below are some alternative names and related terms associated with Plica syndrome:

Alternative Names for Plica Syndrome

1. Synovial Plica Syndrome: This term emphasizes the involvement of the synovial membrane, which is crucial in the pathophysiology of the condition.
2. Plica Syndrome: A more general term that can refer to the condition affecting any knee plica, not just the left knee.
3. Medial Plica Syndrome: This term is used when the medial plica (the plica located on the inner side of the knee) is specifically affected.
4. Knee Plica Syndrome: A broader term that encompasses plica syndrome affecting either knee.

Related Terms

1. Synovitis: Inflammation of the synovial membrane, which can be associated with plica syndrome.
2. Knee Pain: A common symptom of plica syndrome, often leading to its diagnosis.
3. Plicae: Refers to the plural form of plica, indicating multiple folds in the synovial membrane.
4. Chondromalacia Patellae: A condition that may co-occur with plica syndrome, characterized by softening of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap.
5. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A broader category of knee pain that may include plica syndrome as a contributing factor.

Clinical Context

Plica syndrome is often diagnosed in active individuals, particularly athletes, and can result from repetitive knee motion or trauma. The condition may be confused with other knee disorders, making the use of precise terminology essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

In summary, while M67.52 specifically denotes Plica syndrome of the left knee, understanding its alternative names and related terms can facilitate better communication among healthcare providers and improve patient care outcomes.

Plica syndrome, particularly in the context of the left knee, is classified under the ICD-10-CM code M67.52. This condition arises from irritation or inflammation of the plica, a fold in the synovial membrane of the knee joint. Diagnosing plica syndrome involves a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and imaging studies. Below are the key criteria typically used for diagnosis:

Clinical Evaluation

1. Patient History:
   - The clinician will gather a detailed history of the patient's symptoms, including the onset, duration, and nature of knee pain. Patients often report pain during activities that involve knee flexion, such as squatting or climbing stairs.

2. Physical Examination:
   - A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the range of motion, swelling, tenderness, and any mechanical symptoms such as clicking or popping in the knee. The presence of tenderness along the medial aspect of the knee may suggest plica involvement.

Diagnostic Imaging

1. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):
   - MRI is often utilized to visualize the knee joint and assess the condition of the plica. It can help confirm the diagnosis by showing thickening or inflammation of the plica, as well as ruling out other potential causes of knee pain, such as meniscal tears or ligament injuries[1][2].

2. Ultrasound:
   - In some cases, ultrasound may be used to evaluate the plica and assess for any associated effusion or synovial abnormalities.

Differential Diagnosis

• It is crucial to differentiate plica syndrome from other knee conditions, such as:
• Meniscal tears
• Patellofemoral pain syndrome
• Ligament injuries
• Osteoarthritis

Additional Considerations

• Response to Conservative Treatment:

• Patients may be treated conservatively with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. A positive response to these treatments can support the diagnosis of plica syndrome.

• Invasive Procedures:

• In cases where conservative management fails, arthroscopy may be performed. This allows direct visualization of the plica and can confirm the diagnosis while also providing therapeutic options, such as plica resection[3][4].

In summary, the diagnosis of plica syndrome (ICD-10 code M67.52) involves a comprehensive approach that includes patient history, physical examination, imaging studies, and consideration of differential diagnoses. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment of this condition.

[1] ICD-10-CM Code for Plica syndrome, left knee M67.52 - AAPC
[2] M67.52 ICD 10 Code - Plica syndrome, left knee - Billable
[3] Plica syndrome, left knee | M67.52 | DX - disease.expert
[4] Other disorders of synovium and tendon (M67) - ICD List

Plica syndrome, specifically coded as M67.52 in the ICD-10 classification, refers to a condition where a fold of synovial tissue in the knee becomes irritated or inflamed, often leading to pain and discomfort. This condition is commonly associated with activities that involve repetitive knee motion, such as running or cycling. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for this syndrome is crucial for effective management and recovery.

Standard Treatment Approaches for Plica Syndrome

1. Conservative Management

Rest and Activity Modification

One of the first steps in treating plica syndrome is to reduce activities that exacerbate knee pain. Patients are often advised to rest the affected knee and avoid high-impact activities that may aggravate the condition. This can help reduce inflammation and allow the tissue to heal.

Ice Therapy

Applying ice to the knee can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Ice packs should be applied for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after activities that may trigger symptoms.

Physical Therapy

Engaging in physical therapy is a common approach to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility. A physical therapist may design a tailored exercise program that focuses on stretching and strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles, which can help stabilize the knee joint and reduce strain on the plica.

2. Medications

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can be effective in managing pain and reducing inflammation associated with plica syndrome. These medications should be used as directed and are often recommended for short-term relief.

Corticosteroid Injections

In cases where conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, corticosteroid injections may be considered. These injections can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief, allowing patients to engage more fully in rehabilitation exercises.

3. Surgical Intervention

If conservative management fails to alleviate symptoms after several months, surgical options may be explored. The most common surgical procedure for plica syndrome is arthroscopy, which involves:

Arthroscopic Surgery

During this minimally invasive procedure, a surgeon can visualize the knee joint using a small camera and remove the inflamed plica tissue. This can provide significant relief for patients who do not respond to non-surgical treatments.

4. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Following surgery, a structured rehabilitation program is essential to restore function and strength to the knee. This typically includes:

• Gradual Return to Activity: Patients are guided on how to gradually resume normal activities and sports.
• Continued Physical Therapy: Ongoing physical therapy is crucial to regain strength and flexibility, ensuring a successful recovery.

Conclusion

Plica syndrome, while often manageable with conservative treatments, may require surgical intervention in persistent cases. A combination of rest, physical therapy, medication, and, if necessary, surgical options can effectively address the symptoms associated with this condition. Patients experiencing knee pain should consult with a healthcare professional for a tailored treatment plan that considers their specific needs and activity levels.