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ICD-10 Coding for Fracture of Ulnar Styloid(S52.611A)

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

Also known as:

Ulnar Styloid FractureStyloid Process Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Fracture of Ulnar Styloid

S52.61-S52.62Primary Range

Fracture of ulnar styloid process

This range includes codes for both displaced and nondisplaced fractures of the ulnar styloid, with specifications for laterality and encounter type.

Fracture of distal radius

Often associated with ulnar styloid fractures, requiring additional coding when both are present.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for ulnar styloid fracture

Essential facts and insights about Fracture of Ulnar Styloid

The ICD-10 code for a displaced ulnar styloid fracture is S52.611A for the right side and S52.612A for the left side.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for fracture of ulnar styloid

Displaced fracture of right ulnar styloid process, initial encounter for closed fracture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of fracture displacement on imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Documented laterality and encounter type

Applicable To

  • Displaced fracture of right ulnar styloid

Excludes

  • Fracture of distal radius without ulnar styloid involvement

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray confirmation of fracture displacement
  • Clinical examination for DRUJ instability

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation
  • Missing encounter type

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality and encounter type are documented accurately.

Ancillary Codes

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

TFCC injury

S63.30
Use if DRUJ instability is confirmed.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of distal radius, initial encounter

S52.511A
Use when distal radius fracture is primary and ulnar styloid is not involved.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fracture of Ulnar Styloid to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.611A.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of treatment phase., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim rejections.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify treatment phase before coding., Use sequela codes only for follow-up visits post-healing.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied or delayed., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify 'right' or 'left' in the clinical notes.

Impact

Failure to document laterality can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory laterality fields in EHR systems.

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 Ulnar Styloid, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Fracture of Ulnar Styloid

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

Initial encounter for displaced ulnar styloid fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a displaced fracture of the right ulnar styloid. Initial encounter. X-ray confirms displacement. Plan: Closed reduction and casting.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Ulnar styloid fracture treated.
Good Documentation Example
Displaced fracture of right ulnar styloid, initial encounter, treated with closed reduction and casting.
Explanation
The good example specifies laterality, encounter type, and treatment method, which are essential for accurate coding.

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

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