M66.239 Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, unspecified forearm

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Spontaneous rupture of extensor tendons, unspecified forearm
- Also known as extensor tendon injury or spontaneous tendon rupture.

#### Summary
- This condition involves the sudden, non-traumatic tearing of the extensor tendons in the forearm, which help in straightening the wrist and fingers. Often linked to underlying health issues, it can lead to significant functional impairment.

#### Causes
- While often spontaneous, this condition can be linked to chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, tendon degeneration, or previous forearm surgeries.

#### Risk Factors
- Age (especially middle-aged or older adults)
- Chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
- Long-term use of corticosteroids
- Previous forearm injuries or surgeries.

#### Symptoms
- Sudden pain in the forearm
- Inability to extend the wrist or fingers
- Swelling or bruising along the path of the affected tendon
- A noticeable gap in the tendon, sometimes visible under the skin.

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare professional
- Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to confirm the rupture and assess the extent.

#### Treatment Options
- Non-surgical: Immobilization with splints or braces and physical therapy for minor ruptures.
- Surgical repair or reconstruction for complete tendon tears, involving the reattachment of the tendon ends.
- Surgery helps restore the function of the hand and forearm.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good, allowing for functional recovery, though some may experience reduced range of motion.
- Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor healing and to engage in rehabilitative exercises.

#### Complications
- Without treatment, the condition can lead to permanent loss of movement.
- Surgical complications may include infection or nerve damage.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular exercise to maintain tendon strength
- Managing underlying conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
- Avoiding overuse and repetitive strain on the forearm.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate medical attention is needed if there's sudden loss of function in the forearm, visible deformity, or severe pain after minimal or no trauma.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons](http://www.aaos.org/)
- [Arthritis Foundation](http://www.arthritis.org/)
- Support groups for patients with tendon injuries.

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure to note the unspecified nature of the forearm in ICD coding (M66.239).
- Avoid errors related to laterality if unspecified, and thoroughly check the provided medical records for any specific details.

Similar Codes