ICD 10 CM S82.021S | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S82.021S describes a specific type of knee injury, characterized by a vertical break or discontinuity in the knee cap, resulting in a loss of alignment of the fracture fragments, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as falling on the knees, a direct forceful blow, excessive bending of the knee, sports activities, or a traffic accident, and this code is used to indicate an encounter for a sequela, which is a condition resulting from the fracture.

Official Description Of S82.021S

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S82.021S as:

When To Use S82.021S

The diagnosis describes by the ICD-10-CM code S82.021S relates to a specific type of fracture that involves the kneecap, a small bone located in front of the knee joint, also known as the patella. A displaced longitudinal right patellar fracture can cause considerable pain, swelling, and restricted movements in the knee joint. Patients may experience abnormalities in fluid collection within the joint or bleeding in the joint space known as hemarthrosis. They may also report bruising over the affected site, an inability to straighten the knee, and stiffness in the knee.

To diagnose a displaced longitudinal right patellar fracture, healthcare providers conduct a thorough physical examination of the patient, considering their medical history and any risk factors they may have. Laboratory studies may be necessary, and imaging techniques such as X-rays are often required to examine the extent of the fracture. Different views of X-rays, including oblique and lateral views or a CT scan, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis accurately.

Treatment procedures for a displaced longitudinal right patellar fracture depend on the severity of the fracture, whether it is stable or unstable, and whether the fracture occurs as an open or closed fracture. If the fracture is stable and closed, then immobilization of the knee joint may be possible through the use of a splint or a cast. However, an unstable fracture requires reduction and fixation, where the broken bones are realigned and held together with screws, plates, or other devices.

When experiencing an open fracture, where the bone is protruding through the skin, surgery is urgently required to implant hardware or internal fixation. In some cases, the medical professional may utilize arthroscopy to examine the inside of the knee joint, remove bone or tissue fragments, the connective tissue lining the joint, or remove fluid or blood through an aspirate placed in the joint.

Pain management for a displaced longitudinal right patellar fracture should be customized for each patient, and providers utilize appropriate medications to alleviate symptoms such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, narcotic analgesics, and muscle relaxants. Antibiotics are also necessary to prevent or treat infection from surgical interventions.

Rehabilitation therapy is critical for optimal functional recovery of the patient, which may include weight-bearing exercises, heat, and ice therapies, and strengthening programs aimed at improving mobility and range of motion. It is also essential to follow up with healthcare providers to monitor the healing of the fractured knee joint regularly.

In conclusion, a displaced longitudinal right patellar fracture is a severe medical condition with a significant impact on the patient’s mobility and quality of life. Proper diagnosis, intervention, and rehabilitation strategies can minimize the adverse outcomes associated with this condition through a careful combination of diagnostic techniques, surgical intervention, and rehabilitation therapy. Ensuring proper care and follow-up are essential to a successful recovery from a displaced longitudinal right patellar fracture.