Name of the Condition

• Complex tear of medial meniscus, left knee, sequela
• ICD-10 Code: S83.232S

Summary

• This condition refers to a complex tear in the medial meniscus of the left knee, which is a cartilage structure that acts as a cushion between the thigh and shin bones. The term "sequela" indicates that this tear is a part of the ongoing effects or complications resulting from a previous injury.

Causes

• Medial meniscus tears can occur due to activities that involve twisting or turning quickly, often while the foot is planted and the knee is bent.
• It can also result from degeneration of the knee joint due to age or wear and tear.

Risk Factors

• Athletes engaging in sports like soccer, basketball, or skiing.
• Older age due to natural degeneration of the meniscus.
• Previous knee injuries increase susceptibility to the same or similar issues.

Symptoms

• Pain in the knee, especially when twisting or rotating it.
• Swelling and stiffness.
• A reduced range of motion.
• Feeling of the knee "locking" or "catching."

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider assessing range of motion and tenderness.
• Imaging tests such as an MRI to visualize the tear in the meniscus.

Treatment Options

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to manage symptoms.
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee.
• Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications.
• Surgery (arthroscopy) may be necessary to repair or remove the torn portion of the meniscus.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on the severity of the tear and the success of treatment.
• Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Complications

• Can lead to ongoing pain and instability if not treated properly.
• Potential progression to osteoarthritis if significant cartilage damage occurs.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in knee-strengthening exercises.
• Use proper techniques and equipment during sports.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent knee pain or swelling.
• Inability to move the knee fully.
• Any incidents of the knee giving out.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): orthoinfo.aaos.org

• The Arthritis Foundation: www.arthritis.org

  Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure specificity by noting the side of the body (left knee).
• Confirm "sequela" status, which involves persistent symptoms or complications from an earlier injury.
• Avoid confusion with acute or unspecified meniscus tears; the "S" in the code indicates sequela.