Name of the Condition

• Other Specified Disorders of Tendon, Right Knee

Summary

• This condition refers to a range of tendon disorders specifically located in the right knee. These disorders can manifest as pain, swelling, or limited movement due to inflammation or injury to the tendons surrounding the knee joint.

Causes

• The condition may be caused by acute injuries, repetitive strain or overuse, underlying medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, or biomechanical problems affecting knee function.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include engaging in high-impact sports, a history of knee injuries, aging, inadequate warm-up before physical activities, and occupations involving frequent bending or heavy lifting.

Symptoms

• Common symptoms include pain around the knee joint, swelling, a popping or snapping sensation, weakness or instability in the knee, and limited range of motion.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, patient history review, and imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound to visualize the tendons and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options

• Treatment options may include rest, ice applications, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol), physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to repair damaged tendons. These therapies aim to alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and restore function.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, most tendinopathies in the knee can be effectively managed, leading to a good prognosis. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor progress and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• If untreated, possible complications include chronic pain, persistent swelling, decreased knee function, or tendon rupture, which could require surgical repair.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, performing appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises, wearing supportive footwear, and avoiding activities that put undue stress on the knees.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if you experience persistent or severe knee pain, swelling, inability to bear weight on the affected knee, or if symptoms do not improve with initial home treatment.

Additional Resources

• Visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) or Arthritis Foundation websites for more information on knee health and tendon disorders.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure precise documentation of the affected side (right knee) when coding.
• Verify that the tendon disorder does not fall under another more specific ICD classification to avoid miscoding as "other specified disorders."