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ICD Hub / Diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue (M00–M99) / FA02 - Osteoarthritis of wrist or hand
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for FA02 - Osteoarthritis of wrist or hand
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Osteoarthritis of the Wrist and Hand

Osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand, classified under ICD-11 code FA02, is a degenerative joint condition affecting the intricate structures of the wrist and fingers. This common form of arthritis involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage, leading to bone-on-bone friction within the affected joints. It is often referred to as 'wear and tear' arthritis and can significantly impact daily activities. The ICD-11 classification includes specific codes such as FA02.0 for primary osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand, FA02.1 for post-traumatic osteoarthritis, FA02.2 for other secondary forms, and FA02.Z for unspecified cases.

Recognizing the Signs of Wrist and Hand Arthritis

Patients experiencing osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand may present with several key symptoms. The primary complaint is often joint pain, which can worsen with activity and improve with rest. Stiffness, particularly noticeable after periods of inactivity or in the morning, is another common symptom. Affected individuals may also observe swelling in the joints and a noticeable limitation in their functional capacity, making everyday tasks more challenging. A reduced range of motion in the affected wrist or finger joints is also characteristic.

Factors Contributing to Osteoarthritis in the Wrist and Hand

The development of osteoarthritis in the wrist or hand can stem from various factors. Primary osteoarthritis, often referred to as idiopathic osteoarthritis, occurs without a clear underlying cause. However, secondary osteoarthritis is frequently linked to specific events or conditions. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis, for instance, commonly arises after an injury to the wrist or hand, where the trauma can lead to permanent structural changes in the joint that predispose it to degeneration over time. Severe injuries are particularly significant contributors to the onset of this condition.

Diagnosing Osteoarthritis of the Wrist or Hand

The diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. This process usually includes a detailed medical history, where the patient describes their symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and functional limitations. A thorough physical examination of the affected joints is performed to assess for tenderness, swelling, range of motion, and any deformities. Imaging studies like X-rays are commonly used to visualise the extent of cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing, aiding in confirming the diagnosis and assessing severity.

Managing Osteoarthritis of the Wrist and Hand

Management strategies for osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand aim to alleviate symptoms and maintain joint function. Treatment considerations often focus on pain relief and reducing stiffness. While specific interventions vary, approaches may include lifestyle modifications, therapeutic exercises to improve range of motion and strength, and potentially medication for pain management. The goal is to help patients manage their condition effectively and minimise its impact on daily life.

ICD-11 Coding for Osteoarthritis of the Wrist or Hand

Accurate documentation and coding are essential for managing and tracking osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand. The primary ICD-11 code for this condition is FA02. For more specific reporting, clinicians can utilise sub-codes such as FA02.0 (Primary osteoarthritis of wrist or hand), FA02.1 (Post traumatic osteoarthritis of wrist or hand), or FA02.2 (Other secondary osteoarthritis of wrist or hand). Further detail can be added through postcoordination, specifying laterality (e.g., left, right, bilateral) and the exact anatomical sites affected within the wrist and hand joints, such as the radiocarpal joint or specific finger joints. Manifestation codes can also be appended to describe associated chronic pain or structural changes. This detailed coding ensures precise medical record-keeping and supports accurate billing and statistical analysis.

Frequently asked questions

What does ICD-11 code FA02 represent?
ICD-11 code FA02 represents Osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand. It encompasses primary, post-traumatic, and other secondary forms, as well as an unspecified category.
How can ICD-11 coding for Osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand (FA02) be enhanced with additional details?
ICD-11 coding for FA02 can be enhanced through post-coordination by adding stem and/or extension codes. These can specify laterality (e.g., left, right, bilateral) or include manifestations such as chronic secondary musculoskeletal pain.
What are the distinct types of Osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand (FA02) defined in ICD-11?
ICD-11 defines Osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand (FA02) as Primary (FA02.0), Post traumatic (FA02.1), and Other secondary (FA02.2). An unspecified category (FA02.Z) is also available.
How can ICD-11 data for conditions like Osteoarthritis of the wrist or hand (FA02) be accessed programmatically?
Programmatic access to ICD-11 data is provided via the ICD-API. For the Mortality and Morbidity Statistics (MMS) linearization, the `linearizationname` parameter must be set to `mms` in API calls.
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