ICD 10 CM S66.318D | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S66.318D describes a medical condition characterized by the tearing or pulling apart of the fibrous structures surrounding the wrist and hand that aid in extending or straightening a specific finger, resulting from trauma or overuse, with the provider identifying the affected finger but not specifying whether the injury involves the right or left hand during a subsequent encounter for the injury.

Official Description Of S66.318D

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S66.318D as:

When To Use S66.318D

The diagnosis describes by the medical code ICD 10 CM S66.318D is a type of muscle strain that affects the extensor or abductor muscles, fascia, and/or tendon of the finger at the wrist and hand level. This injury can be a result of various activities that put too much strain or pressure on the muscles in the finger, such as playing sports, lifting heavy objects, or repetitive tasks. The symptoms of this injury can be mild to severe and can greatly affect an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks.

The most common symptoms of a muscle strain in the finger include pain, disability, bruising, tenderness, swelling, muscle spasm or weakness, and limited range of motion. Additionally, some individuals may also experience an audible crackling sound associated with movement in the affected finger. These symptoms can be present immediately following the injury or may develop over time, depending on the severity of the strain.

To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers will typically begin by taking a thorough medical history of the patient, including any previous injuries or medical conditions that may affect the fingers. They will then perform a physical examination, paying specific attention to the injured structure and the type of injury. This may include imaging techniques such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for more serious injuries.

Treatment options for a muscle strain in the finger will depend on the severity of the injury and the specific symptoms experienced by the individual. Initially, healthcare providers may recommend rest and the application of ice to reduce swelling and pain. Additionally, medications such as muscle relaxants, analgesics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. A splint or cast may also be applied to immobilize the finger to reduce pain and swelling.

Exercises aimed at improving flexibility, strength, and range of motion of the finger and forearm may also be prescribed. These exercises can be done with the guidance of a physical therapist or at home under supervision. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the injured muscle, fascia, or tendon.

In conclusion, a muscle strain in the finger at the wrist and hand level can be a painful and debilitating injury that can significantly impact an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks. Healthcare providers can use the ICD 10 CM S66.318D medical code to accurately diagnose and treat this condition. Early recognition and treatment of this injury can greatly improve the chances of a full recovery and reduce the risk of long-term complications.