Displacement of internal fixation device of left humerus digital illustration

Displacement of internal fixation device of left humerus Save


ICD-10 code: T84.121

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Displacement of internal fixation device of left humerus

Displacement of internal fixation device of left humerus is a common complication that occurs after surgery to repair a fracture of the upper arm bone. The internal fixation device, which is usually made of metal, is used to hold the broken bone in place while it heals. However, sometimes the device can become displaced or move out of position, which can cause pain and require additional surgery.

There are several reasons why an internal fixation device may become displaced. One of the most common is improper placement of the device during surgery. If the device is not placed correctly, it may not be able to hold the bone in place properly, which can lead to displacement. Another common reason is poor bone quality, which can make it difficult for the device to hold the bone in place. In addition, activities that put stress on the arm, such as lifting heavy objects or falling, can also cause the device to become displaced.

Symptoms of displacement of an internal fixation device of the left humerus may include pain, swelling, and limited mobility of the arm. In some cases, the displacement may be visible or palpable. If you experience any of these symptoms after surgery, it is important to contact your doctor right away.

  1. If the displacement is minor, your doctor may recommend immobilizing the arm with a cast or brace until the bone has healed.
  2. If the displacement is more severe, your doctor may need to perform additional surgery to reposition the device or replace it with a new one.
  3. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the device altogether and allow the bone to heal on its own.

Recovery from displacement of an internal fixation device of the left humerus can take several weeks or months, depending on the severity of the displacement and the type of treatment required. During this time, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and avoid activities that could put stress on the arm.

In conclusion, displacement of internal fixation device of left humerus is a common complication that can occur after surgery to repair a fracture of the upper arm bone. If you experience any symptoms of displacement, it is important to contact your doctor right away to determine the best course of treatment.