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Displaced fracture of middle phalanx of right ring finger, subsequent encounter for fracture with routine healing
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Displaced fracture of the middle phalanx of the right ring finger, subsequent encounter for fracture with routine healing
#### Summary
A displaced fracture of the middle phalanx refers to a break in the central segment of the ring finger bone where the separated parts of the bone are misaligned. "Subsequent encounter for fracture with routine healing" indicates the patient is receiving ongoing care for a fracture that is healing as expected.
#### Causes
- Traumatic injury, often resulting from impact or compression to the hand or fingers.
- Common scenarios include sports injuries, falls, or accidents.
#### Risk Factors
- Participation in contact sports or physical activities.
- Occupational hazards for manual laborers.
- Poor bone density or underlying bone conditions.
#### Symptoms
- Pain at the site of the fracture.
- Swelling and bruising around the injured finger.
- Deformity or misalignment of the finger.
- Reduced range of motion.
#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare provider to assess pain and mobility.
- Imaging tests such as X-rays confirm the type and location of the fracture.
#### Treatment Options
- Splinting or casting to immobilize the finger and promote alignment.
- Pain management with medications such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs.
- Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility post-healing.
- Surgery may be necessary if the fracture does not heal properly with conservative treatment.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Most patients recover fully with proper treatment. Routine follow-ups ensure the fracture is healing correctly.
- X-rays may be conducted during follow-ups to monitor progress.
#### Complications
- If left untreated or improperly managed, complications may include chronic pain, stiffness, or permanent deformity.
- Potential for arthritis in the joint affected by the fracture.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular hand and finger exercises to strengthen and improve flexibility.
- Protective gear during high-risk activities to reduce chance of injury.
- Caution to prevent falls or accidents that could lead to fractures.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate medical attention needed for severe pain, deformity, or inability to move the finger.
- Worsening symptoms despite treatment or signs of infection (e.g., increased redness, swelling, or warmth).
#### Additional Resources
- American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH): [www.assh.org](https://www.assh.org)
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): [www.aaos.org](https://www.aaos.org)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the coding indicates the correct encounter (subsequent vs. initial).
- Verify laterality and specific phalanx involved to avoid errors.
- Double-check the correct ICD code to reflect the healing stage, as this affects claim processing.