Name of the Condition

• Displaced Fracture of Unspecified Tibial Tuberosity, initial encounter for open fracture type I or II
• Medical term: Displaced fracture of tibial tuberosity

Summary

A displaced fracture of the tibial tuberosity involves a break in the protrusion of the tibia bone on the lower leg where the patellar tendon attaches. This specific ICD code refers to an initial encounter for an open fracture, where the bone pierces the skin or is otherwise exposed.

Causes

• Direct trauma to the knee, such as a fall or sports injury
• Sudden or excessive stress on the knee, especially in young athletes
• Road traffic accidents or other high-impact incidents

Risk Factors

• Engaging in contact sports (e.g., football, basketball)
• Participation in activities with a high risk of falls or twists to the knee
• Adolescent growth spurts, particularly in active children

Symptoms

• Severe pain and swelling around the knee area
• Inability to fully extend the leg or bear weight
• Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the knee
• Open wound or visible bone fragments in the case of an open fracture

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess the extent of injury
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to confirm the fracture and its displacement
• Evaluation of the surrounding soft tissues and neurovascular integrity

Treatment Options

• Surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone fragments using screws or plates, especially in open fractures.
• Immobilization using a splint or cast to maintain alignment during healing.
• Pain management with medications.
• Physical therapy post-surgery to restore movement and strengthen the leg muscles.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Generally good prognosis with proper treatment but can vary depending on the extent of injury.

• Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor healing and prevent complications such as infection or improper alignment.

  Complications

• Non-union or malunion of the bone
• Infection due to open wound exposure
• Long-term knee joint issues, including instability or chronic pain

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use protective gear during sports and high-impact activities
• Strengthening exercises for knee support muscles
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knees

When to Seek Professional Help

• Inability to move or bear weight on the affected leg
• Visible bone exposure or severe pain and swelling in the knee area
• Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or discharge from the wound

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): www.aaos.org
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS): www.niams.nih.gov
• Local hospital or health clinic support groups for fracture recovery

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure proper classification of the fracture type and location, specifically noting it as an initial encounter for an open fracture.
• Verify whether the fracture is displaced thoroughly documented in the patient's medical records.
• Avoid mistakes in coding by double-checking for the presence of any additional conditions or complications.