ICD-10 Coding for Broken Ankle(S82.61XA, S82.84-)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Broken Ankle. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Broken Ankle
S82.5-S82.9Primary Range
Fractures of the lower leg, including ankle
This range includes all types of ankle fractures, specifying location, laterality, and encounter type.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S82.61XA | Displaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounters with closed displaced fractures of the right lateral malleolus. |
|
| S82.84- | Bimalleolar fracture | Use when both medial and lateral malleoli are fractured. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for broken ankle
Essential facts and insights about Broken Ankle
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for broken ankle
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Documented evidence of fracture on imaging
documentation Criteria
- Specific mention of laterality and displacement
Applicable To
- Closed displaced fracture of lateral malleolus
Excludes
- Open fracture of lateral malleolus
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray confirmation of fracture
- Clinical documentation of displacement and laterality
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
- Missing displacement details
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies closed vs. open and initial vs. subsequent encounter.
S82.84- - Bimalleolar fracture
Use when both medial and lateral malleoli are fractured.
Applicable To
- Fracture involving both medial and lateral malleoli
Excludes
- Trimalleolar fracture
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing fractures of both medial and lateral malleoli
Coding Notes
Ensure both malleoli are documented as fractured.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Encounter for other orthopedic aftercare
Z47.89Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Broken Ankle to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.61XA.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to incomplete patient records., Regulatory: Triggers audits due to lack of specificity., Financial: May result in denied claims or reduced payments.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality and fracture type.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential claim denials or reduced payments., Compliance: Increased audit risk due to unspecified codes., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify documentation specifies right or left side.
Impact
Using unspecified codes increases audit risk.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation includes all required details for specific coding.
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 Broken Ankle, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Broken Ankle
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Broken Ankle. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Ankle Fracture
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Location and type of fracture
- Neurovascular status
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Broken Ankle? Ask your questions below.