Find information on Lateral Tibial Plateau Fracture diagnosis, including clinical documentation tips, ICD-10 codes (S82), medical coding guidelines, and healthcare resources. Learn about treatment options, rehabilitation protocols, and post-operative care for Lateral Tibial Plateau Fractures. This resource provides essential information for physicians, coders, and other healthcare professionals dealing with Tibial Plateau Fractures, proximal tibia fractures, and related orthopedic injuries.
Also known as
Fracture of lateral tibial plateau
Fracture of the lateral part of the top of the tibia (shinbone).
Fracture of upper end of tibia
Fractures involving the proximal tibia, including the plateau.
Fractures of lower leg, including ankle
Encompasses fractures of the tibia, fibula, and ankle region.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the fracture closed?
Yes
Laterality specified?
No
Laterality specified?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Lateral Tibial Plateau Fracture |
| Medial Tibial Plateau Fracture |
| Bicondylar Tibial Plateau Fracture |
Incorrect coding of laterality (right, left, unspecified) can lead to billing errors and inaccurate data reporting. Use ICD-10 S82. Specific laterality codes needed.
Lack of documentation specifying fracture type (e.g., displaced, comminuted) may result in undercoding and lost revenue. CDI should query physicians for detail.
Overlooking associated injuries (ligament tears, meniscus damage) can lead to inaccurate severity reflection. Thorough chart review is essential for proper coding.
Q: What are the key imaging findings that differentiate Schatzker type I from type II lateral tibial plateau fractures, and how do these findings inform surgical decision-making?
A: Differentiating Schatzker type I and II lateral tibial plateau fractures hinges on assessing the articular depression and condylar widening on imaging. Schatzker type I fractures present as a pure split fracture without significant depression of the articular surface. Imaging, particularly CT scans, will show a clear fracture line but minimal displacement or comminution. In contrast, Schatzker type II fractures involve a split fracture with depression of the lateral tibial plateau. CT scans are essential to quantify the degree of depression and assess for associated condylar widening, a critical factor in determining stability. This distinction is crucial for surgical planning, as type I fractures may be amenable to minimally invasive techniques like percutaneous screw fixation if the fracture is undisplaced. However, type II fractures, given the articular depression, often require open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with buttress plating or possibly external fixation to restore articular congruity and prevent post-traumatic arthritis. Explore how advanced imaging modalities can further enhance preoperative planning for complex tibial plateau fractures.
Q: When managing a high-energy lateral tibial plateau fracture with significant soft tissue compromise, how do you balance the need for definitive fixation with the risk of compartment syndrome and wound healing complications?
A: Managing high-energy lateral tibial plateau fractures with significant soft tissue compromise requires a delicate balance between achieving stable fixation and minimizing risks of compartment syndrome and wound healing issues. Initial management focuses on stabilizing the limb with a temporary external fixator and addressing any emergent compartment syndrome through fasciotomy. Definitive fixation may be delayed until soft tissue conditions improve. Serial compartment pressure monitoring is crucial during this period. Once soft tissues are deemed adequate, definitive fixation can be performed using ORIF with plates and screws, potentially augmented with bone grafting if necessary. Consider implementing staged protocols that prioritize soft tissue healing before pursuing definitive fixation. Meticulous surgical technique, including minimizing periosteal stripping and utilizing minimally invasive approaches when feasible, is essential to optimize wound healing. Learn more about the latest advancements in surgical techniques for managing complex tibial plateau fractures with soft tissue compromise.
Patient presents with complaints of left knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion following a valgus force injury to the left knee sustained during a skiing accident. On physical examination, there is tenderness to palpation over the lateral aspect of the left tibial plateau, with palpable crepitus and effusion. McMurray's test is negative for meniscal tear. Ligamentous testing reveals mild laxity, suggestive of possible lateral collateral ligament involvement. Neurovascular exam of the left lower extremity is intact. Radiographic imaging of the left knee, including AP, lateral, and oblique views, demonstrates a Schatzker type II lateral tibial plateau fracture. The fracture involves the lateral articular surface with minimal depression. Differential diagnosis includes lateral meniscus tear, ligamentous injury, and patellar fracture. Impression is closed, displaced lateral tibial plateau fracture, left knee. Plan is for non-weight-bearing status, application of a hinged knee brace, and referral to orthopedics for surgical consultation. Risks and benefits of surgical versus non-surgical management, including open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), were discussed with the patient. Patient education provided regarding pain management, activity modification, and follow-up care. ICD-10 code S82.109A is assigned for unspecified fracture of lateral tibial plateau, left knee, initial encounter for closed fracture. CPT codes will be determined based on the definitive orthopedic treatment plan. Follow-up appointment scheduled in one week to assess pain control and monitor for complications such as compartment syndrome, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and infection.