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ICD-10 Coding for Clavicle Fracture(S42.021A, S42.001A)

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

Also known as:

Collarbone FractureBroken Clavicleclavicular fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Clavicle Fracture

S42.00-S42.09Primary Range

Fracture of clavicle

This range includes all types of clavicle fractures, specifying location and displacement.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S42.021ADisplaced fracture of shaft of right clavicle, initial encounterUse when imaging confirms a displaced fracture of the right clavicle shaft.
  • X-ray or CT confirming displacement and location
S42.001AFracture of unspecified part of clavicle, initial encounterUse only when specific location and displacement cannot be determined.
  • Lack of specific imaging or documentation

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 displaced clavicle fracture

Essential facts and insights about Clavicle Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a displaced fracture of the shaft of the right clavicle is S42.021A.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for clavicle fracture

Displaced fracture of shaft of right clavicle, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging confirms displacement of the clavicle shaft.

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify 'displaced' and 'shaft'.

Applicable To

  • Displaced midshaft fracture of right clavicle

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray or CT confirming displacement and location

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as non-displaced if imaging is unclear

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies displacement and location.

Ancillary Codes

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

Unspecified fall, initial encounter

W19.XXXA
Use to specify the external cause of the fracture.

Differential Codes

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

Nondisplaced fracture of shaft of right clavicle, initial encounter

S42.024A
Use when imaging shows no displacement.

Displaced fracture of shaft of right clavicle, initial encounter

S42.021A
Use when specific location and displacement are documented.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Clavicle Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S42.021A.

Impact

Clinical: May affect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging reports are reviewed and documented., Use checklists for documentation in fracture cases.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always use the most specific code available based on imaging and documentation.

Impact

Risk of using unspecified codes when specific details are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on the importance of detailed documentation and 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 Clavicle Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Clavicle Fracture

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

Initial ED Visit for Clavicle Fracture

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Location and displacement of fracture
  • Neurovascular status
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with right shoulder pain after a fall. X-ray shows a displaced midshaft fracture of the right clavicle. Neurovascular status intact. Plan: Sling and ortho referral.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient with broken collarbone.
Good Documentation Example
Patient with displaced midshaft fracture of right clavicle, confirmed by X-ray.
Explanation
The good example specifies the fracture type and location, which is necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Clavicle Fracture? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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