I80.222 Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of left popliteal vein

Name of the Condition

• Common names: Phlebitis, Thrombophlebitis
• Medical terms: Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of left popliteal vein

Summary

Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of the left popliteal vein involve inflammation and clot formation in the veins located behind the left knee. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and circulatory issues, and may lead to complications if not treated promptly.

Causes

The condition is typically caused by factors that disrupt normal blood flow or promote clotting, such as injury to the vein, prolonged immobility, infection, or underlying medical conditions that increase clotting risk. It may also occur due to catheter placement or other vascular interventions.

Risk Factors

• Advanced age
• Prolonged bed rest or inactivity
• Genetic clotting disorders
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Pregnancy or hormone-based medications
• Previous history of blood clots or varicose veins

Symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the left calf
• Swelling in the left knee area
• Warmth and redness over the affected vein
• Visible hardening or cord-like texture of the vein
• Low-grade fever (in some cases)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may involve a physical examination, ultrasound imaging to detect clots, or blood tests such as D-dimer to assess clotting activity. Additional tests may be used to evaluate underlying causes or complications.

Treatment Options

• Anticoagulant medications to prevent further clotting
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation
• Compression stockings to improve circulation
• In severe cases, surgical removal of the clot may be required

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, most patients recover completely. Follow-up care may include monitoring for recurrence and managing underlying risk factors to prevent future episodes.

Complications

• Pulmonary embolism (if the clot travels to the lungs)
• Post-thrombotic syndrome (chronic pain, swelling, or skin changes)
• Infection of the affected vein

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Stay active and avoid prolonged immobility
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid smoking
• Use compression stockings if recommended
• Stay hydrated and move regularly during long trips

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you experience sudden swelling, pain, or redness in the left calf, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath or chest pain, as these may indicate a serious complication.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the specific location (left popliteal vein) and confirm the presence of both inflammation (phlebitis) and clot formation (thrombophlebitis) to support accurate coding. Ensure clinical documentation aligns with the ICD-10-CM code I80.222.