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ICD-10 Coding for ATFL Sprain(S93.42XA)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for ATFL Sprain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Anterior Talofibular Ligament SprainLateral Ankle Sprain

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to ATFL Sprain

S93.4Primary Range

Sprain and strain of ankle

This range includes codes for various ankle sprains, including the ATFL.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for ATFL sprain

Essential facts and insights about ATFL Sprain

The ICD-10 code for an ATFL sprain is S93.42XA, indicating a sprain of other ligament of the right ankle, initial encounter.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for atfl sprain

Sprain of other ligament of right ankle, initial encounter
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of ATFL tenderness and positive anterior drawer test

Applicable To

  • Sprain of anterior talofibular ligament

Excludes

  • Fracture of ankle (S82.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Tenderness over ATFL
  • Positive anterior drawer test
  • MRI showing ATFL tear

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using unspecified codes when ATFL is documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the ligament involved and laterality.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Personal history of (healed) ligament injury

Z87.81
Use for patients with a history of ligament injuries.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Fracture of fibula

S82.8XXA
Use when fracture is confirmed, not just a sprain.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting ATFL Sprain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S93.42XA.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always include laterality in documentation, Use templates that prompt for laterality

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Query provider for specific ligament involved.

Impact

High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific documentation is available.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation is detailed and specific.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for ATFL Sprain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for ATFL Sprain

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for ATFL Sprain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Orthopedic evaluation of ATFL sprain

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Subjective: Patient history of injury
  • Objective: Physical exam findings
  • Assessment: Diagnosis of ATFL sprain
  • Plan: Treatment and follow-up

Example Documentation

**Subjective**: Patient reports right ankle inversion injury during basketball. Immediate swelling. **Objective**: Tenderness: ATFL only. Special Tests: Anterior drawer + (8mm displacement), Talar tilt 15°. Imaging: MRI confirms partial ATFL tear. **Assessment**: Acute grade 2 ATFL sprain, right ankle (S93.42XA). **Plan**: RICE protocol, functional brace, PT referral.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right ankle sprain
Good Documentation Example
Acute grade 2 ATFL sprain, right ankle, with positive talar tilt test
Explanation
The good example specifies the ligament, grade, and test results, providing a complete clinical picture.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for ATFL Sprain? Ask your questions below.

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