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Lesion of medial popliteal nerve, bilateral lower limbs
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Lesion of Medial Popliteal Nerve, Bilateral Lower Limbs
- Also known as: Tibial nerve injury, Bilateral tibial neuropathy
Summary
- This condition involves damage or injury to the medial popliteal nerve (also called the tibial nerve) in both lower limbs. The tibial nerve is responsible for motor and sensory functions in the lower legs, and its impairment can lead to various functional difficulties.
Causes
- Common causes include physical trauma, prolonged pressure on the nerve, or underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or vascular diseases that affect nerve health.
Risk Factors
- Risk factors include repetitive leg motions, obesity, diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and engaging in activities or sports that risk leg injuries.
Symptoms
- Patients may experience pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the calves, soles of the feet, and toes. Severe cases might lead to muscle paralysis in the affected area.
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, patient history, nerve conduction studies, and electromyography (EMG) to assess the nerve's functionality and pinpoint the lesion's location.
Treatment Options
- Treatments may include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to relieve nerve compression or repair nerve damage.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis varies; some patients recover fully with appropriate treatment, while others may have persistent symptoms if the nerve damage is severe. Regular follow-ups are important to monitor recovery progress and modify treatment plans as needed.
Complications
- If left untreated, the condition can lead to chronic pain, persistent numbness, or muscle atrophy, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding repetitive leg motions can help manage symptoms. Diabetics should manage their blood sugar levels to reduce nerve damage risks.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate medical attention is advised if you experience sudden weakness, severe pain, or complete loss of sensation in the lower limbs.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure bilateral involvement is noted in records, as it distinguishes G57.43 from unilateral conditions.
- Verify documentation for accurate coding, watch for mentions of diabetes or vascular issues that may need coding as concurrent conditions.