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ICD-10 Coding for Compression Fracture of L2(S32.020A, M80.08XA)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Compression Fracture of L2. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

L2 Vertebral Compression FractureLumbar Compression Fracture at L2

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Compression Fracture of L2

S32.02-S32.029Primary Range

Fracture of second lumbar vertebra

This range includes codes for traumatic fractures of the L2 vertebra.

Age-related osteoporosis with current pathological fracture, vertebra

This range covers osteoporotic fractures of the L2 vertebra.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S32.020AWedge compression fracture of second lumbar vertebra, initial encounterUse for initial encounter of traumatic L2 wedge compression fracture.
  • Documented mechanism of injury (e.g., fall, MVA)
  • Imaging confirming wedge compression
M80.08XAAge-related osteoporosis with current pathological fracture, vertebra, initial encounterUse for initial encounter of osteoporotic L2 fracture.
  • DEXA scan showing osteoporosis
  • Minimal trauma or spontaneous fracture

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 traumatic L2 fracture

Essential facts and insights about Compression Fracture of L2

The ICD-10 code for a traumatic L2 compression fracture is S32.020A, applicable for initial encounters with documented trauma.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for compression fracture of l2

Wedge compression fracture of second lumbar vertebra, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of trauma leading to fracture

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'traumatic' in medical record

Applicable To

  • Acute traumatic L2 wedge compression fracture

Excludes

  • Pathologic fracture of L2 due to osteoporosis

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented mechanism of injury (e.g., fall, MVA)
  • Imaging confirming wedge compression

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use if trauma is not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure trauma is clearly documented to justify use of this code.

Ancillary Codes

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

Personal history of osteoporosis

Z87.310
Use for subsequent encounters to indicate history of osteoporosis.

Differential Codes

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

Age-related osteoporosis with current pathological fracture, vertebra

M80.08XA
Use when fracture is due to osteoporosis without significant trauma.

Wedge compression fracture of second lumbar vertebra, initial encounter

S32.020A
Use when fracture is due to significant trauma.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Compression Fracture of L2 to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S32.020A.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure DEXA results are included, Link fracture to osteoporosis in documentation

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure trauma is documented or query provider for clarification.

Impact

Lack of trauma documentation for traumatic fracture codes

Mitigation Strategy

Implement checklist for trauma documentation in patient records.

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 Compression Fracture of L2, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Compression Fracture of L2

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Compression Fracture of L2. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Initial encounter for traumatic L2 fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Fracture type
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with L2 wedge compression fracture due to fall from ladder. CT confirms 30% height loss.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
L2 fracture noted.
Good Documentation Example
Acute traumatic L2 wedge compression fracture from fall, CT confirms 30% height loss.
Explanation
Good example provides specific details on cause and imaging confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Compression Fracture of L2? Ask your questions below.

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