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ICD-10 Coding for Fracture of Right Wrist(S52.501A, S62.031A)

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

Also known as:

Right Wrist FractureFracture of Right Distal RadiusRight Scaphoid Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Fracture of Right Wrist

S52.5-S52.6Primary Range

Fracture of forearm

Includes fractures of the distal radius and ulna, common in wrist injuries.

Fracture of wrist and hand level

Includes fractures of the carpal bones, such as the scaphoid.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S52.501AUnspecified fracture of the right radius, initial encounter for closed fractureUse when the specific type of fracture is not documented but is confirmed as a closed fracture.
  • X-ray confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical examination indicating fracture
S62.031ADisplaced fracture of the right scaphoid bone, initial encounter for closed fractureUse when the fracture is confirmed as a displaced scaphoid fracture.
  • Snuffbox tenderness
  • X-ray or MRI confirmation

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 wrist fracture

Essential facts and insights about Fracture of Right Wrist

The ICD-10 code for a right wrist fracture varies based on the fracture type and bone involved. Common codes include S52.501A and S62.031A.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fracture right wrist

Unspecified fracture of the right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify laterality and encounter type.

Applicable To

  • Closed fracture of right distal radius

Excludes

  • Open fracture of right radius

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical examination indicating fracture

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-documentation leading to unspecified coding

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality and encounter type are documented to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Unspecified fall, initial encounter

W19.XXXA
Use to describe the external cause of the fracture.

Encounter for other orthopedic aftercare

Z47.89
Use for follow-up visits post-fracture treatment.

Differential Codes

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

Colles' fracture of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture

S52.531A
Use when the fracture is specifically identified as a Colles' fracture.

Displaced fracture of the left scaphoid bone, initial encounter for closed fracture

S62.031B
Use for left wrist fractures.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fracture of Right Wrist to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.501A.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inadequate treatment records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials and revenue loss.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure complete documentation before coding., Use templates to guide documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the side of the body affected (right or left).

Impact

High risk of audit for using unspecified codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure complete and specific 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 Wrist, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Fracture of Right Wrist

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

Initial Evaluation of Right Wrist Fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Fracture type and location
  • Neurovascular status
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a right wrist fracture following a fall. X-ray confirms a displaced fracture of the distal radius. Neurovascular status intact.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right wrist fracture.
Good Documentation Example
Displaced fracture of right distal radius, initial encounter, closed fracture.
Explanation
The good example specifies the fracture type, location, and encounter type, which are essential for accurate coding.

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

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