Understanding Calcaneus Fracture (Heel Bone Fracture, Os Calcis Fracture) diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Find information on clinical documentation, medical coding, ICD-10 codes, healthcare guidelines, and best practices for managing a Calcaneus Fracture. Learn about postoperative care, physical therapy, and complications associated with a Heel Bone Fracture. This resource provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, coders, and patients seeking information on Os Calcis Fracture management.
Also known as
Fracture of calcaneus
Fractures involving the heel bone.
Injuries to the extremities
Covers injuries like fractures, sprains, and dislocations of limbs.
Fractures of lower leg, including ankle
Includes fractures of tibia, fibula, and ankle bones, including calcaneus.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the calcaneal fracture intra-articular (involving the subtalar joint)?
Yes
Displaced fracture?
No
Displaced fracture?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Heel bone break, often from falls. |
| Stress fracture in heel bone. |
| Sprain of ligaments around heel. |
Missing or incorrect laterality (left/right) for calcaneus fracture can lead to claim denials or inaccurate reimbursement.
Distinguishing between intra-articular and extra-articular fractures impacts coding and care planning, posing documentation and coding risks.
Proper documentation and coding of displacement status is crucial for accurate severity reflection and appropriate reimbursement.
Q: What are the key clinical indicators differentiating a simple calcaneus fracture from a more complex intra-articular calcaneus fracture requiring surgical intervention?
A: Differentiating a simple extra-articular calcaneus fracture from a complex intra-articular fracture hinges on careful assessment of several clinical and radiographic factors. While localized tenderness and swelling are common in both, significant hindfoot deformity like varus or valgus malalignment strongly suggests intra-articular involvement. Furthermore, the inability to bear weight, severe pain, and associated injuries like spinal or other lower extremity fractures raise suspicion for a more complex injury. Radiographic evaluation is crucial. Lateral radiographs may reveal Boehler's angle disruption (less than 20-40 degrees) and crucial angles of Gissane. However, CT scans are essential for accurate characterization of intra-articular involvement, fracture displacement, and comminution, crucial for surgical planning. Consider implementing standardized radiographic protocols for suspected calcaneus fractures to ensure accurate diagnosis and inform treatment decisions. Explore how advanced imaging modalities like weight-bearing CT can further enhance surgical planning in complex cases.
Q: How do I determine the most appropriate post-operative rehabilitation protocol following surgical fixation of a comminuted intra-articular calcaneus fracture?
A: Post-operative rehabilitation following surgical fixation of a comminuted intra-articular calcaneus fracture demands a carefully tailored approach based on fracture severity, surgical technique, and patient factors. Early mobilization, while important, must be balanced with protecting the surgical fixation. Typically, non-weight-bearing is maintained for 6-8 weeks followed by gradual weight-bearing progression guided by radiographic healing. Early range of motion exercises for the ankle, subtalar, and midtarsal joints are crucial to prevent stiffness. Physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, proprioception, and gait mechanics. Pain management strategies, including medication and modalities like cryotherapy and compression, are essential components of the rehabilitation process. Learn more about the benefits of incorporating early mobilization protocols while mitigating risks in complex calcaneus fracture cases.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with calcaneus fracture, also known as a heel bone fracture or os calcis fracture. Onset of symptoms followed [mechanism of injury, e.g., fall from height, motor vehicle accident]. Patient reports [specific symptoms e.g., severe heel pain, inability to bear weight, swelling, bruising, deformity]. Physical examination reveals [objective findings e.g., point tenderness over the calcaneus, ecchymosis, edema, palpable deformity, crepitus]. Neurovascular status of the foot was assessed and documented as [intact or specify deficits]. Radiographic imaging of the heel, specifically [specify views, e.g., axial, lateral, Harris views], demonstrates [describe fracture characteristics, e.g., intra-articular, extra-articular, comminuted, displaced, avulsion]. Diagnosis of [specific type of calcaneus fracture] confirmed. Differential diagnoses considered included [list relevant differentials e.g., calcaneal contusion, Achilles tendon rupture, stress fracture]. Treatment plan includes [conservative or surgical options, e.g., RICE protocol, immobilization with a boot or cast, open reduction internal fixation ORIF, closed reduction percutaneous pinning CRPP]. Patient education provided regarding pain management, weight-bearing restrictions, potential complications (e.g., post-traumatic arthritis, complex regional pain syndrome CRPS), follow-up care, and physical therapy. Patient advised to return for follow-up evaluation in [ timeframe ] to assess healing progress and adjust treatment plan as needed. ICD-10 code S92.0-S92.9 assigned.