Name of the Condition

• Displaced Fracture of Lateral Condyle of Right Humerus, Initial Encounter for Closed Fracture (ICD-10 Code: S42.451A)

Summary

• This condition refers to a break in the lateral condyle, a bony prominence on the outer side of the lower end of the humerus (upper arm bone) near the elbow joint. A "closed fracture" means the bone is broken but the skin remains intact.

Causes

• Common causes of a displaced fracture of the lateral condyle include falls on an outstretched arm, direct trauma to the elbow, or stress from activities like throwing.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors may include engaging in contact sports, having osteoporosis, or being involved in accidents, particularly among children and adolescents due to active lifestyles.

Symptoms

• Symptoms might include pain and swelling around the elbow, bruising, inability to move the elbow normally, and visible deformity if the bone is severely displaced.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess the extent and specifics of the fracture.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may include immobilization with a cast or splint, pain management, and sometimes surgery to realign and stabilize the bone. Physical therapy is often recommended post-healing to restore movement and strength.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good, though recovery time may vary. Follow-up care includes regular imaging to ensure proper healing and rehabilitation exercises to regain full function.

Complications

• Potential complications include improper bone healing (malunion), stiffness or loss of range of motion, and, in rare cases, nerve damage.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Preventive measures include using protective gear during sports, maintaining bone health through diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and ensuring safe environments to reduce fall risks.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical help if there is severe pain, swelling, numbness, deformity, or inability to move the joint following an injury.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and local orthopedic support groups.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by verifying the laterality (right humerus) and the type of fracture (displaced, closed).
• Avoid common errors such as misidentifying the limb or the fracture type. Double-check the code for the initial encounter scenario.