Name of the Condition

• Unspecified Dislocation of Left Patella
• Also known as Patellar Dislocation

Summary

• This condition refers to the displacement of the patella (kneecap) from its normal alignment in the knee joint, specifically on the left side. It is described as "unspecified" because the exact nature or specific details of the dislocation have not been determined at this stage. This is the initial medical encounter regarding this injury.

Causes

• Common causes include trauma or impact directly to the knee, sudden changes in direction while the foot is planted, or structural abnormalities.

Risk Factors

• High-risk sports involving running, jumping, or quick directional changes (e.g., basketball, soccer)
• Previous dislocations or knee injuries
• Weakness in leg muscles or increased ligament flexibility

Symptoms

• Sudden pain in the knee
• A feeling of instability or the knee "giving way"
• Visible or palpable shift of the kneecap
• Swelling and bruising around the knee

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the position of the patella and any associated damage

Treatment Options

• Nonsurgical: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE); immobilization with a knee brace; physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee.
• Surgical: May be needed in cases of repeated dislocations or severe soft tissue injury to repair ligaments and stabilize the patella.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, most individuals recover fully, although recurrence can occur.
• Regular follow-up is important to monitor healing and prevent future dislocations.

Complications

• Recurrent dislocations leading to chronic knee instability
• Damage to cartilage or other knee structures
• Increased risk for osteoarthritis in the affected knee

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in exercises to strengthen the thigh and hip muscles, which help stabilize the knee.
• Wear proper footwear and protective gear during physical activities.
• Consider knee braces for additional support if participating in high-risk sports.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe pain or inability to move the knee
• Visible deformity or misalignment around the knee
• Symptoms of decreased blood flow or nerve damage, such as numbness or tingling

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) website
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) website

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct laterality by confirming it involves the left patella.
• Verify this is an initial encounter for accurate coding.
• Be cautious of overlapping codes if there are multiple injuries.