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Unspecified fracture of left calcaneus, initial encounter for closed fracture
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Unspecified Fracture of Left Calcaneus, Initial Encounter for Closed Fracture
- Technical term: S92.002A
#### Summary
A fracture of the calcaneus, or heel bone, is a break or crack in the bone that forms the heel of the foot. This condition is referred to as "unspecified" when the exact nature of the fracture is not determined, and "closed fracture" when the skin is not broken.
#### Causes
- Traumatic injuries such as falls from a height or car accidents.
- High-impact accidents affecting the heel.
- Sudden, severe twisting or bending of the foot.
#### Risk Factors
- Engaging in high-impact sports or activities.
- Occupations involving repeated jumps or falls.
- Osteoporosis, which weakens bones.
- Wearing inappropriate footwear that lacks support.
#### Symptoms
- Sudden pain in the heel.
- Swelling and bruising over the heel and ankle.
- Inability to bear weight on the affected foot.
- Visible deformity if the fracture is severe.
#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare professional.
- Imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to confirm the fracture and assess its extent.
#### Treatment Options
- Rest and avoidance of weight-bearing activities to allow healing.
- Immobilization using a cast or splint to keep the bone in place.
- Pain management with medications.
- In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign and stabilize the fracture.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With appropriate treatment, complete recovery is possible, though healing times can vary.
- follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and adjust treatment if necessary.
#### Complications
- Chronic pain or permanent deformity if not treated properly.
- Potential development of arthritis in the affected joint.
- Delayed or improper healing, leading to a non-union or malunion of the bone.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Wearing appropriate footwear to support and protect the heel.
- Using caution when engaging in activities that involve jumping or height.
- Strengthening exercises for the feet and ankles to maintain stability and support.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent pain in the heel or inability to walk after an injury.
- Increased swelling or bruising that does not improve with rest.
- Signs of infection such as warmth, redness, or discharge around the heel.
#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: [https://www.aaos.org](https://www.aaos.org)
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: [https://www.niams.nih.gov](https://www.niams.nih.gov)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Verify whether the fracture is open or closed to ensure accurate coding.
- Double-check for any specifications or additional notes in the patient's file that could affect the ICD code used.
- Common error to avoid: selecting the wrong side (right vs. left) and encounter (initial vs. subsequent).