ICD-10 Coding for Distal Fibular Fracture(S82.641A, S82.642B)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Distal Fibular Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Distal Fibular Fracture
S82.6Primary Range
Fracture of the fibula
This range includes specific codes for fractures of the distal fibula, including lateral malleolus fractures.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S82.641A | Nondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounters of nondisplaced lateral malleolus fractures on the right side without open wounds. |
|
| S82.642B | Displaced fracture of lateral malleolus of left fibula, initial encounter for open fracture | Use for initial encounters of displaced lateral malleolus fractures on the left side with open wounds. |
|
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 distal fibular fracture
Essential facts and insights about Distal Fibular Fracture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for distal fibular fracture
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Fracture is nondisplaced and closed
documentation Criteria
- Laterality and encounter type are specified
Applicable To
- Nondisplaced lateral malleolus fracture
Excludes
- Open fracture of lateral malleolus
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray confirmation of nondisplacement
- Clinical examination confirming closed fracture
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure laterality is correctly documented
- Confirm fracture is closed
Coding Notes
- Ensure the 7th character reflects the encounter type (A for initial).
S82.642B - Displaced fracture of lateral malleolus of left fibula, initial encounter for open fracture
Use for initial encounters of displaced lateral malleolus fractures on the left side with open wounds.
Applicable To
- Displaced lateral malleolus fracture with open wound
Excludes
- Closed fracture of lateral malleolus
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray confirmation of displacement
- Clinical examination confirming open fracture
Coding Notes
Ensure the 7th character reflects the encounter type (B for open).
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Fall on same level from slipping, tripping and stumbling
W01.xxxADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Displaced fracture of lateral malleolus of left fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture
S82.642ANondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture
S82.641ADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Distal Fibular Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.641A.
Impact
Clinical: Incomplete injury documentation, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Review coding guidelines, Cross-check documentation
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards, Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records
Mitigation Strategy
Verify and document the correct side of the fracture
Impact
Errors in documenting the correct side of the fracture
Mitigation Strategy
Implement double-checks during documentation review
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 Distal Fibular Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Distal Fibular Fracture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Distal Fibular Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial encounter for displaced distal fibular fracture
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Fracture displacement
- Open vs closed status
- Laterality
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Distal Fibular Fracture? Ask your questions below.