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ICD-10 Coding for Fracture of Pelvis(S32.1XXA, S32.4XXA)

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

Also known as:

Pelvic FractureBroken Pelvis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Fracture of Pelvis

S32.0-S32.9Primary Range

Fracture of lumbar spine and pelvis

This range includes specific codes for fractures of different parts of the pelvis, such as the sacrum, ilium, and acetabulum.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S32.1XXAFracture of sacrum, initial encounterUse for initial encounters involving sacral fractures confirmed by imaging.
  • CT scan showing fracture line through S1-S2 junction
S32.4XXAFracture of acetabulum, initial encounterUse for initial encounters involving acetabular fractures confirmed by imaging.
  • Judet views demonstrating posterior wall involvement

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 fracture of pelvis

Essential facts and insights about Fracture of Pelvis

The ICD-10 codes for pelvic fractures include S32.1XXA for sacrum and S32.4XXA for acetabulum, depending on the specific bone involved.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fracture of pelvis

Fracture of sacrum, initial encounter
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of fracture line on imaging

Applicable To

  • Fracture of sacral ala

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT scan showing fracture line through S1-S2 junction

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with coccyx fractures

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to specify laterality and encounter type.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fall-related external cause

W18.XXXA
Use to provide context for the cause of the fracture.

Periprosthetic fracture

M97.01XA
Use when the fracture is associated with a prosthetic joint.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of coccyx

S32.2XXA
Coccyx fractures are located at the tailbone, whereas sacral fractures involve the sacrum.

Fracture of femoral neck

S72.0XXA
Femoral neck fractures involve the proximal femur, not the acetabulum.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fracture of Pelvis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S32.1XXA.

Impact

Clinical: Impacts treatment decisions and follow-up care., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the side of the body affected., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use CPT 27197/27198 for posterior fractures and E/M codes for anterior.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of fracture pattern can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed imaging reports and clinical notes are included in the patient record.

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

Documentation Templates for Fracture of Pelvis

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

Initial encounter for pelvic fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Fracture location and type
  • Imaging findings
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a closed fracture of the right ilium following a fall. CT confirms fracture line through the iliac crest. Plan for ORIF.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pelvic fracture, stable.
Good Documentation Example
Unstable APC-2 pelvic ring fracture with 3cm pubic diastasis, left sacroiliac joint disruption, and 1L pelvic hematoma (CT-confirmed).
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture type, location, and associated findings, which are crucial for accurate coding and treatment planning.

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

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