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ICD-10 Coding for Humeral Head Fracture(S42.211A)

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

Also known as:

Proximal Humerus FractureShoulder Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Humeral Head Fracture

S42.21Primary Range

Fracture of humeral head

This range includes codes for fractures of the humeral head, specifying laterality and encounter type.

Pathological fracture in neoplastic disease, humerus

Used when the fracture is due to underlying neoplastic disease.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for humeral head fracture

Essential facts and insights about Humeral Head Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a displaced fracture of the humeral head is S42.211A for the right arm and S42.212A for the left arm.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for humeral head fracture

Displaced fracture of humeral head, right arm, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Displacement confirmed by imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Laterality and displacement status documented

Applicable To

  • Displaced fracture of right humeral head

Excludes

  • Fracture of surgical neck of humerus

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of displacement
  • Documentation of laterality

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation
  • Failure to specify displacement

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies displacement and laterality.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fall on stairs

W10.xxxA
Use to specify the external cause of the fracture.

Differential Codes

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

Anterior dislocation of humerus

S43.01xA
Use when dislocation is present without fracture.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Humeral Head Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S42.211A.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates, Review imaging reports

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential for reduced reimbursement, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in data reporting

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure laterality is documented and coded correctly.

Impact

High use of unspecified codes can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure complete documentation of laterality and displacement.

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 Humeral Head Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Humeral Head Fracture

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

Initial Evaluation of Humeral Head Fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Imaging results
  • Neurovascular status
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a displaced fracture of the right humeral head following a fall. Imaging confirms a 3-part Neer classification fracture. Plan for ORIF.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Fractured right humeral head.
Good Documentation Example
Displaced 3-part Neer classification fracture of right humeral head with intra-articular extension confirmed on CT.
Explanation
The good example provides specific classification and imaging confirmation, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Humeral Head Fracture? Ask your questions below.

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