S82.402 Unspecified fracture of shaft of left fibula

Name of the Condition

• Unspecified fracture of shaft of left fibula
• ICD-10 Code: S82.402

Summary

This condition refers to a fracture (break) of the middle portion of the fibula, the smaller of the two bones in the lower leg, on the left side. The term "unspecified" indicates that the exact location of the fracture on the fibula has not been pinpointed. This is a closed fracture, meaning the bone is broken but the skin is not pierced.

Causes

Most commonly caused by direct trauma or impact to the outside of the leg, such as from falls, sports injuries, or accidents.

Risk Factors

• Participation in contact sports.
• High-risk occupations or activities that increase the likelihood of falls or impacts.
• Osteoporosis or reduced bone density, which increases fragility.
• Advanced age, which may weaken bone strength.

Symptoms

• Pain and swelling in the lower leg.
• Difficulty bearing weight on the leg.
• Bruising or tenderness around the injured area.
• Possible deformity or instability of the leg structure.

Diagnosis

Physical examination by a healthcare professional, followed by imaging tests such as X-rays, to determine the exact location and extent of the fracture.

Treatment Options

• Immobilization of the leg using a splint or cast to allow the bone to heal properly.
• Pain management with medications such as analgesics.
• Physical therapy to restore movement and strength.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Most fractures of the fibula shaft heal well with proper immobilization and care. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to monitor healing progress, often involving repeat imaging to confirm bone alignment and union. Full recovery may take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the fracture and adherence to treatment recommendations.

Complications

• Delayed healing or nonunion of the fracture.
• Malunion, where the bone heals in an abnormal position.
• Nerve or blood vessel damage near the fracture site.
• Chronic pain or stiffness in the lower leg.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Wear appropriate protective gear during sports or high-risk activities.
• Maintain bone health through a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise to strengthen bones.
• Use caution to avoid falls, especially in older adults or those with balance issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, inability to bear weight, visible deformity, or signs of infection (e.g., redness, warmth, or pus) at the injury site.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the specific side (left) and location (shaft of fibula) clearly in the medical record. Ensure the fracture is classified as closed (no skin penetration) unless evidence indicates otherwise. Verify that the encounter type (e.g., initial, subsequent) aligns with the code’s documentation requirements to support accurate coding.