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ICD-10 Coding for Fracture of Right Distal Fibula(S82.641A, S82.841A)

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

Also known as:

Right Lateral Malleolus FractureRight Distal Fibular Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Fracture of Right Distal Fibula

S82.6-S82.8Primary Range

Fractures of lower leg, including ankle

This range includes specific codes for fractures of the fibula, including the lateral malleolus and other specified parts.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S82.641ANondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fractureUse when the fracture is nondisplaced and confirmed by imaging with no widening of the medial clear space.
  • X-ray confirmation of fracture line ≤2 mm displacement
  • No medial clear space widening (<4 mm on stress views)
S82.841AOther fracture of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fractureUse for fractures that are not confined to the lateral malleolus or present with complex patterns.
  • Fracture extends beyond lateral malleolus into distal shaft
  • Atypical fracture patterns

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 right distal fibula fracture

Essential facts and insights about Fracture of Right Distal Fibula

The ICD-10 code for a nondisplaced fracture of the right distal fibula is S82.641A.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fracture right distal fibula

Nondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Fracture line ≤2 mm displacement and no medial clear space widening

Applicable To

  • Nondisplaced fracture of right lateral malleolus

Excludes

  • Open fracture of lateral malleolus

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray confirmation of fracture line ≤2 mm displacement
  • No medial clear space widening (<4 mm on stress views)

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if displacement is not accurately measured.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented as 'right' and confirm fracture type as nondisplaced.

Ancillary Codes

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

Ligamentous injury of ankle

S93.4-
Use if syndesmotic disruption is present.

Differential Codes

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

Other fracture of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture

S82.841A
Use when fracture extends beyond lateral malleolus into distal shaft or presents atypical patterns.

Nondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture

S82.641A
Use when fracture is confined to the lateral malleolus and nondisplaced.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fracture of Right Distal Fibula to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.641A.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to ambiguity in treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include laterality in the diagnosis.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims or incorrect reimbursement., Compliance: Misclassification affects compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Impacts the accuracy of clinical data and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure accurate anatomical documentation and use specific codes for lateral malleolus.

Impact

Using unspecified codes when specific codes are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on specific code usage and ensure thorough documentation.

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 Right Distal Fibula, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Fracture of Right Distal Fibula

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

Emergency Department Note

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Location of fracture
  • Mechanism of injury
  • Imaging results
  • Stability assessment
  • Treatment plan

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right ankle fracture - treat with cast
Good Documentation Example
Nondisplaced oblique fracture of right lateral malleolus (2.1 mm gap), medial clear space 3.5 mm on gravity stress view. No talar tilt. Stable for weight-bearing.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture type, displacement, and stability, which are essential for accurate coding.

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

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