Wiki Physical Exam - Can we count bullets for physical exam

[Partha]

Can we count bullets for physical exam (evaluation of ROM, deformity, stability, muscle strength) of knees and hips separately or they will be considered the same extremity?

Thanks!

 

[Jagadish]

As per 1997 DGs, they will be considered as single extremity.

Examination of joint(s), bone(s) and muscle(s)/ tendon(s) of four of the following six areas: 1)head and neck; 2) spine, ribs and pelvis; 3) right upper extremity; 4) left upper extremity;5) right lower extremity; and 6) left lower extremity.

For the comprehensive level of examination, all four of the elements identified by a bullet must be performed and documented for each of four anatomic areas. For the three lower levels of examination, each element is counted separately for each body area. For example, assessing range of motion in two extremities constitutes two element