Name of the Condition

• Unspecified Dislocation of Right Shoulder Joint, Sequela
• Technical: Glenohumeral dislocation sequela

Summary

• This condition refers to the long-term or residual effects that persist after the initial treatment of an unspecified dislocation of the right shoulder joint. Often this means dealing with chronic pain, instability, or restricted movement.

Causes

• The original shoulder dislocation could have been caused by trauma (such as a fall or collision), overuse, or degenerative changes in the shoulder joint.

Risk Factors

• Previous shoulder dislocations, high-impact sports, occupations requiring repetitive arm movements, age-related degeneration, and generalized joint instability conditions increase the likelihood of experiencing sequelae.

Symptoms

• Symptoms may include chronic shoulder pain, recurrent instability or repeated dislocations, reduced range of motion, and weakness in the shoulder.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination and review of medical history. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans might be used to assess the state of the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may involve physical therapy to strengthen shoulder muscles, pain management strategies, and possibly surgical interventions to repair or tighten the joint if instability persists.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The effectiveness of treatment varies, but many individuals experience improvements in function and reduction of symptoms with appropriate management. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor progress and adjust treatment strategies if necessary.

Complications

• If not properly managed, sequelae can lead to chronic pain, persistent instability, arthritis in the joint, or increased risk of recurrent dislocations.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Strengthening shoulder muscles through targeted exercises, avoiding high-risk activities, and modifying movements to reduce strain can help manage symptoms. Early intervention after the initial dislocation is key to preventing sequelae.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if experiencing new or worsening shoulder pain, repeated dislocations, numbness, or inability to move the shoulder normally.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• Arthritis Foundation

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate attribution to the “sequela” phase by noting the 'S' at the end of the ICD code.
• Verify the laterality specified (right shoulder) to avoid errors, as there are different codes for each shoulder and unspecified shoulder dislocations.