ICD 10 CM S62.362K | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S62.362K describes a specific type of injury, namely a nondisplaced fracture of the neck of the right third metacarpal, which occurs when the rounded head of the middle bone of the hand breaks partially or completely where it attaches to the finger bone, without any misalignment of the fracture fragments, and is typically caused by trauma such as a forceful blow with a clenched fist or a direct blow to the end of the middle finger, and this code is used for subsequent encounters when the fragments fail to unite or there is nonunion.

Official Description Of S62.362K

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S62.362K as:

When To Use S62.362K

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S62.362K code represents a specific type of hand injury that can cause significant discomfort and functional limitations for patients. This type of injury occurs when there is a nondisplaced fracture of the neck of the third metacarpal bone in the patient’s right hand.

The symptoms associated with this type of fracture can include pain and swelling in the affected area, bruising, difficulty gripping or lifting heavy weight, and limited range of motion. For patients experiencing these symptoms, seeking medical attention is crucial to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

Medical providers typically diagnose this type of fracture through a combination of patient history and physical examination, as well as imaging tests such as PA, lateral, and oblique X-rays. In cases where these initial tests are inconclusive, computed tomography or bone scans may be necessary to provide a more accurate diagnosis.

When a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment options will depend on the severity of the fracture. In cases of stable and closed fractures, casting may be sufficient to immobilize the affected area and allow for proper healing. However, more severe or unstable fractures may require closed or open reduction and internal fixation, which involves repositioning the bone and inserting screws, pins or plates to stabilize the bone during the healing process.

In the case of open fractures where the skin has been broken, surgery may be necessary to close the wound and prevent infection. In addition to these more invasive methods, non-surgical treatments such as applying ice packs, rest, and elevation of the hand may be recommended, as well as medications such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain.

Finally, physical therapy may be necessary to help patients regain full range of motion and function after their fracture has healed. This can include exercises designed to strengthen the hand and improve flexibility, as well as massage or ultrasound therapy to promote healing and reduce swelling.

In conclusion, a diagnosis of ICD 10 CM S62.362K represents a specific type of hand fracture that can result in significant pain and functional limitations for patients. Seeking prompt medical attention is vital to ensure a proper diagnosis and the best possible outcome. With appropriate treatment, patients can recover from this type of injury and regain their full range of motion and function.