Name of the Condition

• Displaced Transverse Fracture of the Patella (S82.033D)

Summary

• This condition refers to a specific type of knee injury where the kneecap (patella) has a fracture that runs horizontally and the bone pieces are not aligned. The "subsequent encounter for closed fracture with routine healing" indicates follow-up treatment after the initial emergency care, where the bone is healing as expected without complications.

Causes

• Fractures of the patella typically occur due to direct trauma or impact to the knee, such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

Risk Factors

• Individuals who participate in high-impact sports, those with osteoporosis, and people with occupations that have a higher risk of falls or knee injuries are more susceptible to this type of fracture.

Symptoms

• Pain around the kneecap, swelling, bruising, and inability to straighten the knee or walk easily are typical symptoms associated with this fracture.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis often involves a physical examination followed by imaging tests like X-rays to assess the extent and type of fracture.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may include immobilization with a cast or brace to allow the bone to heal, and in some cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to realign the bone fragments. Physical therapy may follow to restore movement and strength.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper treatment, most patients experience full recovery. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure the bone is healing properly and to assess the progress of rehabilitation.

Complications

• Potential complications include impaired knee movement, chronic pain, or arthritis if the fracture does not heal correctly or if there are ligament or cartilage injuries.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Strengthening knee muscles, wearing protective gear during high-impact sports, and maintaining good bone health can help prevent such injuries.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If you experience severe knee pain, inability to move the knee, significant swelling after an injury, or worsening symptoms during recovery, seek immediate medical advice.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: AAOS Information on Patellar Fractures
• Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcomes Score (KOOS): A tool for patients to report outcomes related to knees

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct identification of whether the fracture is displaced or not and confirm whether it is a subsequent encounter with routine healing to use the appropriate ICD code.
• Avoid confusing with open fractures, as they have different codes and treatment management paths.