Find information on TFCC tear diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, and healthcare resources. Learn about triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries, TFCC tear symptoms, and treatment options. Explore ICD-10 codes for TFCC tear, CPT codes for TFCC repair, and medical billing guidelines. This resource provides essential information for healthcare professionals, coders, and patients seeking to understand TFCC tears.
Also known as
Sprain and strain of wrist
Includes TFCC tears, a common wrist injury.
Pain in joint
Can be used for wrist pain associated with a TFCC tear.
Other injuries of wrist and hand
May be applicable for less common TFCC tear complications.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the TFCC tear traumatic?
Yes
Is there associated ulnar fracture?
No
Is it degenerative/chronic?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| TFCC Tear |
| Ulnar Impaction |
| Lunotriquetral Ligament Tear |
Coding TFCC tear without specifying affected wrist (right or left) leads to claim rejections and inaccurate data reporting. Use modifiers RT/LT.
Lack of documentation differentiating acute, chronic, or traumatic TFCC tear impacts coding selection and reimbursement. CDI crucial for clarity.
If TFCC tear diagnosis is associated with a procedure, ensure appropriate procedure codes (e.g., arthroscopy, repair) are also documented and coded.
Q: What are the most reliable physical examination maneuvers for diagnosing a TFCC tear in a patient presenting with ulnar-sided wrist pain?
A: Diagnosing a TFCC tear requires a thorough physical examination incorporating specific maneuvers targeting the TFCC. The press test, where the patient presses up from a chair using their affected hand, can elicit pain indicative of a TFCC tear. The ulnar fovea sign, involving palpation of the tender area just distal and volar to the ulnar styloid, often exhibits point tenderness in the presence of a TFCC tear. The TFCC load test, performed by applying axial compression while rotating the forearm, can further aid diagnosis. While imaging studies like MRI are crucial for confirmation and classification, these physical exam findings contribute significantly to accurate clinical suspicion and guide appropriate next steps. Explore how incorporating these tests can improve your diagnostic accuracy for TFCC tears.
Q: How can I differentiate between a TFCC tear, a distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability, and ulnar impaction syndrome in a patient with chronic wrist pain?
A: Differentiating between a TFCC tear, DRUJ instability, and ulnar impaction syndrome requires careful consideration of patient history, specific physical exam findings, and imaging results. While all three conditions can present with ulnar-sided wrist pain, some key differences exist. DRUJ instability may present with clicking or popping in the wrist and a positive piano key sign. Ulnar impaction syndrome is often associated with a history of distal radius fracture and pain exacerbated by ulnar deviation and loading activities. A TFCC tear can be identified using the press test, the ulnar fovea sign, and the TFCC load test. MRI is invaluable in confirming the diagnosis and classifying the specific lesion in each condition, facilitating targeted treatment plans. Consider implementing a standardized evaluation protocol including these elements for accurate diagnosis and management of ulnar-sided wrist pain. Learn more about the specific MRI findings associated with each condition to refine your interpretation skills.
Patient presents with complaints of ulnar-sided wrist pain, clicking, and decreased grip strength, consistent with a suspected Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) tear. Onset of symptoms occurred [duration] ago following [mechanism of injury - e.g., fall on outstretched hand, repetitive twisting motion]. Pain is localized to the ulnar aspect of the wrist and is exacerbated by [movements - e.g., ulnar deviation, gripping, rotation]. The patient reports [presence or absence] of clicking, popping, or catching sensations in the wrist. Physical examination reveals tenderness to palpation over the TFCC, positive ulnar fovea sign, and pain with resisted pronation and supination. The patient exhibits [degree] limitation in range of motion compared to the contralateral side. Differential diagnosis includes ulnar impaction syndrome, lunotriquetral ligament tear, distal radioulnar joint instability, and wrist sprain. Imaging studies, including [mention specific imaging ordered or completed, e.g., wrist x-ray, MRI arthrogram], will be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the TFCC tear. Initial treatment plan includes activity modification, rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain management, and referral to hand therapy for wrist stabilization exercises. Surgical intervention, such as arthroscopic TFCC repair or debridement, may be considered if conservative treatment fails to provide adequate symptom relief. Patient education provided on TFCC anatomy, causes of tears, treatment options, and expected recovery time. Follow-up scheduled in [duration] to assess response to treatment and discuss further management.