ICD 10 CM S82.122N | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S82.122N describes a specific type of fracture, known as a displaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the left tibia or a lateral tibial plateau fracture, which occurs when there is a break in the curved projection on the outer side of the upper end of the larger of the two lower leg bones, resulting in a misalignment of the broken pieces of bone, and is typically caused by high impact trauma from a direct blow to the knee area, such as from a fall, pedestrian-motor vehicle encounter, or sports activities, while thinning of the bones and cancer can increase the risk of fracture even from minor trauma in the elderly, and this code is used for a subsequent encounter for a Gustilo type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC open fracture of the left tibia, which is exposed through a tear or laceration in the skin caused by displaced fragments or external trauma, that fails to unite.

Official Description Of S82.122N

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S82.122N as:

When To Use S82.122N

The diagnosis described by the ICD 10 CM S82.122N code pertains to fractures of the lateral condyle of the tibia. These types of fractures are more common than those of the medial condyle due to the surface of the lateral condyle being flatter and more exposed when the knee is extended, making it more susceptible to trauma.

Individuals who are over the age of 50, particularly those who have osteoporosis, are at a higher risk of sustaining a tibial plateau fracture. This is because the bone has been weakened due to a decrease in bone density, making it more prone to fractures.

Symptoms of a displaced fracture of the lateral condyle of the tibia can include severe pain when moving the leg, instability, deformity, and swelling in the knee region, bruising, limited range of motion due to ligament injury, and compartment syndrome. Numbness and tingling may also occur if there is associated nerve and blood vessel damage. An associated patella (kneecap) fracture may also be present.

To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers will look at the patient’s history of trauma, carry out a physical examination, and perform laboratory studies. Imaging techniques such as anteroposterior and lateral plain X-rays with oblique and traction views are usually used, with CT or MRI used in cases where further information is required.

If the fracture is stable and minimally displaced, it can be treated with a cast followed later by a hinged brace. However, if the fracture is unstable, severely depressed, or displaced, reduction and fixation would be required. Ligament and vascular injuries may require repair, while surgery may be necessary to close an open fracture.

Patients may also benefit from immediate application of ice pack, compression, and elevation, as well as the aspiration of any fluid or blood in the joint. Medications such as narcotic analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be administered depending on the severity of pain. As the healing process progresses, exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion may be added, followed by weight-bearing exercises as tolerated.

In summary, the ICD 10 CM S82.122N code refers to fractures of the lateral condyle of the tibia, which are more common in older adults and those with osteoporosis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help patients recover from this type of injury, and a combination of medical and therapeutic approaches can help achieve the best possible outcome.