ICD 10 CM S32.121A | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S32.121A describes a type of sacral fracture that occurs as a result of trauma, such as falls from high elevations, automobile accidents, or stress fractures from running and other sports activities, which involves a vertical break through a foramen of the sacrum, the large triangular bone at the end of the vertebral column, with slight displacement and possible spinal cord involvement, often leading to damage to the nerve roots at the L5 and S1 or S2 vertebral levels, and is applicable to the initial encounter for a minimally displaced fracture not exposed by a tear or laceration in the skin.

Official Description Of S32.121A

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S32.121A as:

When To Use S32.121A

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S32.121A code refers to a type of sacral fracture that occurs in the second zone and causes minimal displacement. This injury can result in a range of symptoms, including mild to moderate pain, reduced mobility, stiffness, swelling, weakened lower back muscles, and tingling or numbness in the legs, and loss of control over bowel and bladder functioning.

When a patient is presented with these symptoms, healthcare providers diagnose the condition through a variety of examination methods. In an initial consultation with the patient, the provider will ask about medical history, their current symptoms, and assess their overall level of pain. A physical examination will be conducted to evaluate function, strength, and sensation.

Neurological tests may also be necessary to assess the patient’s responses to reflexes, nerve conduction, and muscle strength tests. Imaging techniques, such as X-rays or computed tomography, may be utilized to further evaluate the extent and specific location of the sacral fracture. Electromyography may be necessary to assess nerve function or damage.

Anal and sphincter functionality may also be assessed to determine the level of nerve or muscle trauma. These exams may help corroborate the diagnosis and provide more information regarding the extent of the injury.

Treatment options for a sacral fracture depend on a variety of factors, including the type of fracture, the age and health of the patient, and the severity of the injury. In cases where an injury is stable, bed rest, a sacral brace to restrict movement, traction, and medications such as steroids, analgesics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed.

In cases where the fracture is unstable and causes significant nerve or spinal damage, surgery may be necessary. Fixation and nerve compression surgery may be necessary to repair the damage to the sacrum and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Physical therapy may also be necessary to help the patient regain mobility and strength.

In addition to physical therapy, and medication, the patient may be prescribed thrombolytic or anticoagulant therapy to reduce the risk of blood clots due to reduced mobility. This type of therapy is used to help decrease the patient’s risk of stroke, pulmonary embolus, and in some cases, heart attack.

In conclusion, a sacral fracture in zone II with minimal displacement can be a painful and debilitating injury that necessitates a diagnosis and assessment with the use of various medical examinations, such as neurological tests, imaging techniques, and other exams. Treatment options may include surgery, medication, and physical therapy. The ultimate goal of treatment is to alleviate the symptoms and help the patient achieve a full recovery.