ICD-10 Coding for Fractured Rib(S22.3-, S22.4-, S22.5-)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Fractured Rib. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Fractured Rib
S22.3-S22.5Primary Range
Fracture of ribs
This range covers all types of rib fractures including single, multiple, and flail chest.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S22.3- | Fracture of one rib | Use when a single rib fracture is confirmed without flail chest. |
|
| S22.4- | Fracture of multiple ribs | Use when multiple rib fractures are confirmed without flail chest. |
|
| S22.5- | Flail chest | Use when flail chest is confirmed. |
|
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 fractured rib
Essential facts and insights about Fractured Rib
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fractured rib
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed single rib fracture on imaging
Applicable To
- Single rib fracture
Excludes
- Flail chest (S22.5-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray or CT confirmation of single rib fracture
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented.
S22.4- - Fracture of multiple ribs
Use when multiple rib fractures are confirmed without flail chest.
Applicable To
- Multiple rib fractures
Excludes
- Flail chest (S22.5-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray or CT confirmation of multiple rib fractures
Coding Notes
Document the exact number of ribs fractured.
S22.5- - Flail chest
Use when flail chest is confirmed.
Applicable To
- Flail chest
Excludes
- Single or multiple rib fractures without flail chest
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical documentation of paradoxical chest movement
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation of paradoxical movement.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fractured Rib to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S22.3-.
Impact
Clinical: May affect treatment planning and outcomes., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates that prompt for laterality., Educate providers on documentation requirements.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Potential for audit issues due to incorrect coding., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation of paradoxical chest movement for flail chest.
Impact
Lack of documentation for paradoxical movement in flail chest cases.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields in EHR for flail chest 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 Fractured Rib, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Fractured Rib
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Fractured Rib. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Imaging findings
- Respiratory status
- Complications
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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