Name of the Condition

• Subluxation of Distal Radioulnar Joint of Unspecified Wrist, Initial Encounter
• Also known as Partial Dislocation of Distal Radioulnar Joint.

Summary

• Subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) occurs when the joint between the two forearm bones, the radius and ulna, partially dislocates. This type of injury affects the wrist, causing discomfort and impaired motion.

Causes

• Common causes include trauma or injury to the wrist, such as falls or direct impact.
• Repetitive stress or strain on the wrist in sports or occupational activities.

Risk Factors

• Participation in high-impact sports.
• Previous wrist injuries.
• Certain occupations involving heavy manual labor.
• Inadequate protective gear during physical activities.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness near the wrist and forearm.
• A feeling of instability or limited range of motion.
• Swelling and possible bruising around the joint.
• Visible deformity or misalignment.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to view joint displacement and assess injury severity.

Treatment Options

• Immobilization using splints or casts to allow the joint to heal.
• Manual reduction by a healthcare professional to reposition the joint.
• Physical therapy to restore strength and motion after healing.
• Surgery in severe or non-responsive cases to realign the joint.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, most subluxations heal without long-term complications.
• Follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the joint heals properly and to adjust treatment as needed.

Complications

• Chronic pain or instability if the subluxation is not properly treated.
• Potential for recurrent subluxations or future dislocations.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Strengthening exercises for the wrist and forearm muscles to provide better support.
• Using protective wrist gear during high-risk activities.
• Avoiding repetitive strain activities without proper wrist support.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is required if there is severe pain, visible deformity, or significant swelling.
• Persistent symptoms after an initial injury should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) www.aaos.org
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases www.niams.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct laterality if specified (right or left wrist); use 'unspecified' only if documentation does not provide laterality.
• Confirm the initial encounter is appropriately coded by checking patient history and documentation.
• Common errors include misidentifying the condition as a complete dislocation or coding a follow-up encounter as an initial one.