Name of the Condition

• Breakdown (mechanical) of breast prosthesis and implant, initial encounter
• ICD Code: T85.41XA

Summary

• This condition refers to the mechanical failure or malfunction of a breast implant or prosthesis. It is generally characterized by issues such as rupture, leakage, or structural defects experienced shortly after initial placement.

Causes

• The breakdown of breast implants can be caused by factors such as manufacturing defects, wear and tear over time, damage during surgery, or trauma to the chest area.

Risk Factors

• Earlier surgeries involving breast implants or prostheses.
• Participation in activities that may cause chest trauma.
• Utilization of older implants, which may degrade over time.

Symptoms

• Signs may include changes in breast shape or size, pain or discomfort, swelling, and hard lumps around the breast area.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound, and sometimes aspiration of fluid for analysis.

Treatment Options

• Surgical intervention might be necessary, including removal or replacement of the defective implant.
• Monitoring may be recommended in less severe cases to observe changes over time.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Outcomes vary based on the extent of the breakdown and the approach to treatment. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for further complications and ensure healing.

Complications

• If untreated, issues may include infection, asymmetry, or further breast tissue damage.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Limiting activities that may lead to chest injury.
• Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor the condition of the implants.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is warranted if there is severe pain, signs of infection like redness or warmth, or significant changes in breast appearance.

Additional Resources

• Breast Implant Safety organizations or specific support groups like Breast Implant Illness Support and Healing can provide further assistance and information.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the initial encounter status.
• Verify details that distinguish mechanical breakdown from other implant-related conditions.
• Avoid miscoding by clearly differentiating from non-mechanical issues such as infections or allergic reactions.