Traumatic Arthropathy, Left Wrist

Name of the Condition

• Common name: Traumatic Arthropathy
• Medical term: Traumatic Arthritis of the Left Wrist

Summary

Traumatic arthropathy of the left wrist refers to joint damage in the wrist resulting from physical injury. This condition leads to pain, swelling, and impaired function due to the changes in the joint structure following trauma.

Causes

• Direct injury to the wrist, such as fractures or dislocations.
• Previous wrist surgeries or repetitive stress injuries.

Risk Factors

• Participating in contact sports or activities with a high risk of injury.
• Occupations requiring repetitive wrist movements or heavy lifting.
• History of wrist injuries or surgeries.

Symptoms

• Persistent pain in the left wrist.
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint.
• Limited range of motion.
• Stiffness or weakness in the wrist.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider.
• Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess joint damage.
• Patient history review to identify any past injuries or incidents.

Treatment Options

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strengthen the wrist.
• In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair joint damage.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Recovery outcomes vary depending on the severity of the injury and effectiveness of the treatment.
• Patients may require ongoing rehabilitation and regular check-ups to monitor wrist function and prevent further damage.

Complications

• Development of osteoarthritis in the wrist if poorly managed.
• Chronic pain and reduced wrist mobility.
• Increased risk of future injuries due to weakened joint.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Using protective gear during high-risk activities or sports.
• Proper techniques for lifting or repetitive movements.
• Regular strengthening and flexibility exercises for wrist health.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden, severe pain or swelling after an incident.
• Inability to move or use the wrist normally.
• Signs of infection, such as redness and warmth, if there are open wounds.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) – aaos.org
• Arthritis Foundation – arthritis.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure ICD code M12.532 is applied specifically to traumatic arthropathy of the left wrist.
• Verify patient history for documentation of a triggering injury.
• Avoid confusion with other forms of wrist arthritis by confirming trauma linkage.