ICD 10 CM S62.233S | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S62.233S describes a type of injury to the base of the thumb, specifically a displaced fracture of the proximal first metacarpal bone of an unspecified hand, resulting from trauma such as a forceful blow on a clenched fist, sports activities, fall on a thumb that is extended out, or motor vehicle accident, where the fracture fragments are misaligned and the specific type of metacarpal fracture is not named under any other codes in this category, but the provider does not document if the metacarpal fracture involves the left or right hand for an encounter for a sequela, a condition resulting from the fracture.

Official Description Of S62.233S

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S62.233S as:

When To Use S62.233S

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM S62.233S is a type of displaced fracture that occurs in the base of the first metacarpal bone of an unspecified hand, leading to a range of symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising over the affected site, difficulty in moving the hand, numbness and tingling sensations, deformity of the thumb, and possible damage to the nerves and blood vessels by the bone fragments.

To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers typically conduct a thorough patient history and physical examination. They may also use various imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and possibly a bone scan to evaluate the extent and severity of the injury. In cases where nerve or blood vessel damage is suspected, electrodiagnostic and additional imaging studies may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment options for this type of fracture vary depending on the severity of the condition. While stable and closed fractures may not require surgery, unstable fractures often require fixation with the use of plates, wires, screws, or intramedullary nailing as deemed necessary by the healthcare team. Open fractures, on the other hand, usually require surgery to close the wound and prevent infection.

In addition to surgical interventions, healthcare providers may also consider other treatment options such as applying an ice pack, immobilizing the affected limb with a splint, traction or cast to stabilize the break and restrict limb movement, and administration of analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain.

It is important for individuals who have experienced this type of fracture to take care of their overall bone health, particularly during the recovery process. This may include taking calcium and vitamin D supplements to improve bone strength, as well as physical therapy to promote progressive mobilization of the affected hand and prevent stiffness. Physical therapy can also improve range of motion, flexibility, and muscle strength, and treat any secondary injuries caused by the displaced bone fragments.

In conclusion, medical coders should understand the range of symptoms associated with ICD 10 CM S62.233S and the treatment options available to help patients recover. By coding accurately and appropriately, medical coders can help ensure that patients receive the care they need to recover from this type of fracture and minimize any potential long-term complications.