Rupture of synovium, other site
ICD-10 M66.18 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rupture of synovium, other site.
Rupture of synovium refers to the tearing or disruption of the synovial membrane, which lines the joints and tendon sheaths. This condition can occur in various locations throughout the body, often resulting from trauma, overuse, or underlying inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout. The synovium plays a crucial role in joint health by producing synovial fluid, which lubricates joints and nourishes cartilage. When the synovium ruptures, it can lead to joint swelling, pain, and decreased mobility. In cases where the rupture is associated with tenosynovitis, inflammation of the tendon sheath may also be present, complicating the clinical picture. Surgical intervention may be required to repair the rupture, especially if it is accompanied by tendon damage or if conservative management fails. Accurate diagnosis often involves imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, to assess the extent of the injury and guide treatment decisions.
Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, and imaging results.
Patients presenting with joint pain and swelling after a fall or repetitive use injury.
Ensure clear documentation of the specific joint or tendon involved to avoid coding errors.
Comprehensive assessment of inflammatory markers and history of autoimmune conditions.
Patients with chronic inflammatory diseases presenting with acute exacerbations of joint pain.
Document any prior history of synovial disorders to support the diagnosis.
Used when a patient with knee pain undergoes arthroscopy to assess for synovial rupture.
Document the indication for the procedure and findings during the arthroscopy.
Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that the procedure notes clearly indicate the diagnosis.
Synovial rupture can be caused by acute trauma, repetitive strain, or underlying inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, patient history, and imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound to visualize the extent of the rupture.
