Name of the Condition

• Abrasion, Unspecified Knee, Sequela
• Also referred to as a knee abrasion or scraped knee, with a focus on the long-term consequences following an initial healing phase.

Summary

• An abrasion to the knee is a superficial injury where the skin is scraped away. The term "sequela" refers to conditions that arise as a result of a previous injury, indicating long-term effects or complications following the initial healing of the abrasion.

Causes

• Abrasions typically result from falls, friction, or scraping against a hard surface. The sequela of a knee abrasion can develop from inadequate healing, infection, or repeated trauma to the area.

Risk Factors

• Active lifestyle or sports participation, inadequate protection of the knee, previous knee injuries, and poor wound care are risk factors that may predispose individuals to sequela complications.

Symptoms

• Long-term symptoms may include mild to moderate pain, changes in skin color or texture, minor swelling, or sensitivity at the site of the original injury.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is primarily clinical and involves a physical examination to assess the knee's appearance and check for symptoms associated with post-healing complications.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may include pain management with over-the-counter medications, physical therapy to maintain joint function, and topical treatments to address skin abnormalities. In some cases, further medical intervention may be required to address complications.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis for a knee abrasion sequela often depends on the severity and management of the initial injury. Regular follow-ups ensure any complications are identified and treated promptly to prevent further damage.

Complications

• Possible complications can include chronic pain, infection, reduced range of motion, or skin changes such as scarring or persistent discoloration.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Proper wound care following an initial abrasion is crucial. This includes cleaning the wound, applying appropriate dressings, and avoiding situations that may lead to repeated trauma. Regular exercise and protective gear can help prevent future incidents.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if there is persistent pain, signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling), or significant impairment to knee function.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Pediatrics - Knee Injuries in Children
• American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine - Common Knee Injuries

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the sequela of an abrasion is accurately coded as S80.219S to indicate it's a late effect of a past injury.
• Avoid confusing acute injuries with sequela; the code specifies continued problems related to an abrasion that has undergone the acute healing period.