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ICD-10 Coding for Humerus Fracture(S42.202A)

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

Also known as:

Upper Arm FractureHumeral Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Humerus Fracture

S42.2-S42.4Primary Range

Fractures of the humerus

This range covers all types of humerus fractures including proximal, shaft, and distal fractures.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for humerus fracture

Essential facts and insights about Humerus Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a humerus fracture depends on the fracture's location and specifics. For example, S42.202A is used for an unspecified fracture of the upper end of the left humerus.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for humerus fracture

Unspecified fracture of upper end of left humerus, initial encounter for closed fracture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of shoulder deformity and pain with arm abduction

Applicable To

  • Proximal humerus fracture

Excludes

  • Pathological fracture (M84.4-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical examination showing shoulder deformity

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of incorrect coding if laterality is not specified

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Age-related osteoporosis with current pathological fracture, left humerus

M80.011A
Use when the fracture is due to osteoporosis.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of shaft of humerus, initial encounter for closed fracture

S42.392A
Use for fractures located at the mid-shaft of the humerus.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Humerus Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S42.202A.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all relevant clinical details are documented., Review imaging and clinical notes before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document whether the fracture is on the right or left humerus.

Impact

High risk of audits if laterality is not specified.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory laterality documentation 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 Humerus Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Humerus Fracture

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

Initial encounter for closed fracture of the left humerus

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a closed fracture of the left humerus after a fall. X-ray confirms a displaced fracture. Plan for surgical intervention.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Left arm fracture
Good Documentation Example
Displaced closed fracture of the mid-shaft left humerus (S42.322A) with 2cm wound communicating with fracture bed (Gustilo Type II)
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture type, location, and associated conditions.

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

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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