Name of the Condition

• Nondisplaced Longitudinal Fracture of Left Patella with Nonunion, Subsequent Encounter
• ICD-10 Code: S82.025K

Summary

• This condition refers to a type of knee injury where the left kneecap (patella) has a fracture that runs vertically, and despite treatment, the fracture has not healed properly, leading to a condition known as nonunion. This entry concerns a follow-up visit after the initial injury.

Causes

• This fracture type typically results from direct trauma to the knee, such as a fall or blow to the area, or from excessive stress on the knee joint. Nonunion may arise due to inadequate stabilization of the fracture, insufficient blood supply, or other underlying conditions affecting bone healing.

Risk Factors

• Engaging in high-impact activities.
• Previous history of knee injuries.
• Osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken bones.
• Smoking or conditions that impair blood circulation.

Symptoms

• Persistent pain and tenderness in the knee.
• Swelling and bruising.
• Difficulty bending or straightening the knee.
• A sensation of instability or giving way in the knee joint.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination assessing pain, swelling, and knee function.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to evaluate the fracture and its status.

Treatment Options

• Immobilization with a brace or cast to support the knee.
• Physical therapy to improve strength and range of motion.
• Electrical stimulation to promote bone growth.
• Surgical intervention if conservative treatment fails, which may involve hardware insertion to stabilize the fracture or bone grafting.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Healing may take longer in cases of nonunion; ongoing monitoring by an orthopedic specialist is crucial.
• Positive outcomes are likely with appropriate treatment and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
• Regular follow-up appointments to assess healing progress and adjust treatment as necessary.

Complications

• Chronic knee pain and discomfort.
• Decreased range of motion and potentially impaired function of the knee.
• Risk of post-traumatic arthritis.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
• Engaging in regular low-impact exercises to strengthen supporting muscles around the knee.
• Avoiding activities that increase risk of knee injury or stress on the joint.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If experiencing severe pain, swelling, or a noticeable deformity in the knee.
• If the knee joint becomes unstable or locks up during movement.
• If signs of infection appear, such as fever or increased redness and warmth around the knee.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: orthoinfo.aaos.org
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: niams.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Double-check the specific details of the fracture, including location (left patella), type (nondisplaced longitudinal), and status (subsequent encounter with nonunion).
• Ensure accurate coding to reflect the nonunion status and any complications that may be present. Avoid confusion with similar codes for initial encounters.