ICD-10: S82.031

The ICD-10 code S82.031 refers to a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella. This classification is part of the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10), which is used globally for coding and classifying health conditions and diseases.

Clinical Description

Definition

A displaced transverse fracture of the patella occurs when the bone is broken across its width, resulting in two or more fragments that are misaligned. This type of fracture typically results from a direct impact or trauma to the knee, such as a fall or a sports injury. The displacement indicates that the fragments of the bone have shifted from their normal anatomical position, which can complicate healing and may require surgical intervention.

Symptoms

Patients with a displaced transverse fracture of the patella may experience:
- Severe pain in the knee area, particularly when attempting to move the leg.
- Swelling and bruising around the knee joint.
- Inability to bear weight on the affected leg.
- Deformity of the knee, which may be visible upon examination.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion.
- Imaging studies, primarily X-rays, to confirm the fracture type and assess displacement. In some cases, a CT scan may be used for a more detailed view of the fracture.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Management

In cases where the fracture is stable and not significantly displaced, treatment may include:
- Rest and immobilization using a knee brace or splint.
- Pain management with analgesics.
- Physical therapy to restore function and strength once healing begins.

Surgical Intervention

For displaced fractures, surgical options may be necessary, including:
- Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), where the bone fragments are realigned and held together with plates and screws.
- Knee arthroscopy may be performed to remove any loose fragments or debris from the joint.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a displaced transverse fracture of the patella largely depends on the severity of the fracture, the patient's age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. With appropriate treatment, many patients can expect a return to normal function, although some may experience lingering stiffness or weakness in the knee.

Coding and Classification

The specific code S82.031 is part of a broader classification system for fractures of the patella, which includes various types and locations of fractures. The code is essential for medical billing, epidemiological studies, and health management purposes, ensuring accurate tracking of injuries and treatment outcomes.

In summary, the displaced transverse fracture of the right patella (ICD-10 code S82.031) is a significant injury that requires careful diagnosis and management to ensure optimal recovery and return to function.

The displaced transverse fracture of the right patella, classified under ICD-10 code S82.031, is a specific type of knee injury that can significantly impact a patient's mobility and quality of life. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for effective diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Mechanism of Injury

Displaced transverse fractures of the patella typically occur due to high-energy trauma, such as falls, direct blows to the knee, or motor vehicle accidents. They can also result from indirect trauma, such as a sudden contraction of the quadriceps muscle during activities like jumping or running, which can lead to a fracture when the knee is flexed[1].

Patient Characteristics

Patients who sustain a displaced transverse fracture of the patella often share certain characteristics:
- Age: These fractures are more common in younger individuals, particularly those engaged in sports or high-impact activities. However, they can also occur in older adults due to falls[1].
- Gender: Males are generally at a higher risk due to higher participation in high-risk activities[1].
- Activity Level: Active individuals, especially athletes, are more prone to such injuries due to the nature of their activities[1].

Signs and Symptoms

Pain

Patients typically experience acute pain localized to the knee, which may be exacerbated by movement or pressure on the area. The pain is often described as sharp and severe, particularly during attempts to extend the knee[1].

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling around the knee joint is common and may develop rapidly following the injury. Bruising may also be present, indicating bleeding within the joint or surrounding tissues[1].

Deformity

A visible deformity may be noted, particularly if the fracture is displaced. The patella may appear misaligned or out of place, and the knee may have an abnormal contour[1].

Limited Range of Motion

Patients often exhibit a significant reduction in the range of motion of the knee joint. Attempts to bend or straighten the knee may be met with resistance due to pain and mechanical instability[1].

Crepitus

Crepitus, or a grating sensation, may be felt during movement of the knee, indicating the presence of fractured bone fragments[1].

Functional Impairment

Patients may have difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg, leading to an altered gait or the use of assistive devices such as crutches[1].

Diagnostic Considerations

Imaging

Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays, which can reveal the fracture pattern and displacement. In some cases, CT scans may be utilized for a more detailed assessment of the fracture and surrounding structures[1].

Differential Diagnosis

It is essential to differentiate a displaced transverse fracture of the patella from other knee injuries, such as ligament tears or non-displaced fractures, to ensure appropriate management[1].

Conclusion

The displaced transverse fracture of the right patella (ICD-10 code S82.031) presents with distinct clinical features, including acute pain, swelling, deformity, and functional impairment. Understanding these signs and symptoms, along with patient characteristics, is vital for healthcare providers to facilitate timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and restore function to the affected knee.

The ICD-10 code S82.031 refers specifically to a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella. Understanding alternative names and related terms for this condition can enhance clarity in medical documentation and communication. Below are some relevant terms and classifications associated with this diagnosis.

Alternative Names

1. Transverse Patellar Fracture: This term describes the nature of the fracture, emphasizing its transverse orientation.
2. Displaced Patella Fracture: This highlights that the fracture has resulted in the bone fragments being misaligned.
3. Right Patellar Fracture: A more general term that specifies the location of the fracture without detailing its type.
4. Fracture of the Right Kneecap: A layman's term that refers to the patella as the kneecap, making it more understandable for non-medical individuals.

Related Terms

1. ICD-10 Code S82.03: This is the broader category for transverse fractures of the patella, which includes both displaced and non-displaced fractures.
2. ICD-10 Code S82.031D: This code specifies a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella, indicating a subsequent encounter for the fracture.
3. ICD-10 Code S82.031A: This code indicates the initial encounter for a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella.
4. Knee Injuries: A general term that encompasses various types of injuries to the knee, including fractures.
5. Patellar Fracture: A general term that refers to any fracture of the patella, regardless of the type or displacement.

Clinical Context

In clinical settings, the terminology used can vary based on the context, such as surgical reports, radiology findings, or patient discussions. Understanding these alternative names and related terms is crucial for accurate coding, treatment planning, and effective communication among healthcare providers.

Conclusion

The ICD-10 code S82.031 for a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella is associated with various alternative names and related terms that can aid in understanding and documentation. Familiarity with these terms is essential for healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and coding of knee injuries.

The diagnosis of a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella, classified under ICD-10 code S82.031, involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and specific criteria. Here’s a detailed overview of the diagnostic criteria and considerations for this condition.

Clinical Evaluation

Patient History

• Mechanism of Injury: Understanding how the injury occurred is crucial. Common mechanisms include falls, direct trauma to the knee, or high-impact sports injuries.
• Symptoms: Patients typically present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the knee. They may also report a popping sound at the time of injury.

Physical Examination

• Inspection: Look for swelling, bruising, or deformity around the knee joint.
• Palpation: Tenderness over the patella and surrounding structures is common. The clinician may also assess for crepitus or abnormal movement.
• Range of Motion: Assessing the active and passive range of motion can help determine the extent of the injury.

Imaging Studies

X-rays

• Standard Views: Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views of the knee are essential to visualize the patella and assess for fractures.
• Fracture Characteristics: The X-ray should clearly show a transverse fracture line across the patella, with displacement indicating that the fracture fragments are not aligned.

Advanced Imaging

• CT or MRI: In cases where the fracture is complex or if there is suspicion of associated injuries (e.g., ligament tears), a CT scan or MRI may be warranted. These modalities provide detailed images of bone and soft tissue structures.

Diagnostic Criteria

To diagnose a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella (S82.031), the following criteria should be met:

1. Identification of Fracture: Confirmation of a transverse fracture line on imaging studies.
2. Displacement: Evidence that the fracture fragments are not aligned, which may be assessed through the degree of separation on X-ray.
3. Location: The fracture must be specifically located on the right patella, as indicated by the ICD-10 code.
4. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Rule out other potential causes of knee pain and swelling, such as ligament injuries or patellar dislocations, which may require different management.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella (ICD-10 code S82.031) relies on a thorough clinical assessment and appropriate imaging studies. Accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the appropriate treatment plan, which may include conservative management or surgical intervention depending on the severity of the fracture and associated injuries. Proper documentation of the injury mechanism, clinical findings, and imaging results is crucial for coding and reimbursement purposes, as outlined in various medical guidelines and reimbursement resources[1][4].

The management of a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella, classified under ICD-10 code S82.031, typically involves a combination of surgical and non-surgical treatment approaches. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the patient's age, activity level, the degree of displacement, and associated injuries. Below is a detailed overview of standard treatment approaches for this specific fracture.

Non-Surgical Treatment

1. Initial Management

• Rest and Immobilization: Patients are often advised to rest and avoid weight-bearing activities. Immobilization can be achieved using a knee brace or splint to stabilize the knee joint and prevent further injury.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain during the initial phase of treatment.

2. Physical Therapy

• Rehabilitation Exercises: Once the initial pain and swelling decrease, physical therapy may be initiated to restore range of motion and strengthen the surrounding muscles. This typically includes gentle stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to the patient's condition.

3. Pain Management

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, stronger pain relief may be necessary, depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient's pain tolerance.

Surgical Treatment

1. Indications for Surgery

• Surgery is generally indicated for displaced fractures where the fragments are significantly misaligned, or if there is a risk of complications such as joint instability or malunion.

2. Surgical Techniques

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): This is the most common surgical approach for displaced patellar fractures. The procedure involves:
  • Open Reduction: The surgeon makes an incision to access the fracture site and realign the bone fragments.
  • Internal Fixation: Metal plates, screws, or wires are used to hold the fragments in place, allowing for proper healing and restoration of knee function.
• K-wire Fixation: In some cases, especially for less complex fractures, K-wires may be used to stabilize the fracture.

3. Postoperative Care

• Rehabilitation: Post-surgery, a structured rehabilitation program is essential. This may include:
  • Gradual weight-bearing as tolerated.
  • Continued physical therapy focusing on restoring knee function and strength.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing through imaging studies and assess the stability of the fixation.

Complications and Considerations

1. Potential Complications

• Complications can include nonunion or malunion of the fracture, infection, and stiffness of the knee joint. Early intervention and adherence to rehabilitation protocols can help mitigate these risks.

2. Long-Term Outcomes

• Most patients can expect a good functional outcome with appropriate treatment. However, some may experience residual pain or limited range of motion, particularly if the fracture was severe or if there were delays in treatment.

Conclusion

The treatment of a displaced transverse fracture of the right patella (ICD-10 code S82.031) involves a careful assessment to determine the best approach, whether surgical or non-surgical. Early intervention, effective pain management, and a structured rehabilitation program are crucial for optimal recovery and return to normal activities. Regular follow-up is essential to ensure proper healing and to address any complications that may arise during the recovery process.