Juvenile Osteochondrosis of Tarsus, Right Ankle (M92.61)

Name of the Condition

• Common name: Juvenile osteochondrosis of the tarsus
• Medical term: Osteochondrosis dissecans of the talus

Summary

Juvenile osteochondrosis of the tarsus is a condition affecting the ankle joint, specifically the right ankle in growing children and adolescents. It involves the disruption of blood flow to a part of the bone in the tarsus, leading to bone and cartilage damage.

Causes

The exact cause of juvenile osteochondrosis is not fully understood. It is believed to be related to repetitive trauma or stress on the ankle, combined with the mechanical stress of rapid growth in adolescence.

Risk Factors

• Age: Most common in children and teenagers
• Participation in sports with repetitive ankle stress (e.g., soccer, basketball)
• Family history of bone or joint disorders

Symptoms

• Pain in the ankle, especially after physical activity
• Swelling and tenderness around the ankle
• Limited range of motion in the joint
• Limping or difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Imaging tests: X-rays or MRI to view the affected area of the ankle

Treatment Options

• Rest and activity modification to reduce stress on the ankle
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief
• In severe cases, surgical intervention to remove loose bone fragments or repair cartilage

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, most children recover well, and the condition resolves as the affected area heals. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor healing and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• Chronic pain if untreated
• Permanent joint damage or deformity
• Development of osteoarthritis in adulthood

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Encourage low-impact sports or activities to reduce ankle stress
• Education on proper techniques and use of protective gear in sports
• Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake for bone health

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or severe ankle pain
• Swelling that does not improve with rest
• Ankle instability or difficulty walking

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate location coding by specifying "right ankle" for M92.61.
• Be cautious to distinguish between juvenile osteochondrosis and other osteochondritis conditions affecting different joints or age groups.