Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Lateral Malleolus Fracture(S82.64XA, S82.61XA)

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

Also known as:

Distal Fibula FractureAnkle Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Lateral Malleolus Fracture

S82.6Primary Range

Fracture of lateral malleolus

This range includes specific codes for fractures of the lateral malleolus, detailing laterality and displacement.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S82.64XANondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fractureUse for initial encounters of nondisplaced right lateral malleolus fractures.
  • X-ray confirming nondisplacement
  • Clinical notes specifying closed fracture
S82.61XADisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of right fibula, initial encounter for closed fractureUse for initial encounters of displaced right lateral malleolus fractures.
  • CT/MRI showing displacement
  • Clinical notes specifying closed fracture

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 nondisplaced right lateral malleolus fracture

Essential facts and insights about Lateral Malleolus Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a nondisplaced right lateral malleolus fracture is S82.64XA.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for lateral malleolus fracture

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

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • X-ray shows no displacement

documentation Criteria

  • Notes confirm closed fracture

Applicable To

  • Nondisplaced fracture of right lateral malleolus

Excludes

  • Bimalleolar fracture
  • Trimalleolar fracture

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray confirming nondisplacement
  • Clinical notes specifying closed fracture

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as displaced fracture

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies nondisplacement and laterality.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fall on same level from slipping, tripping and stumbling

W00.0XXA
Use to describe the external cause of the fracture.

Differential Codes

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

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

S82.61XA
Requires documentation of displacement >2mm or rotational deformity.

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

S82.64XA
Requires documentation of no displacement.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lateral Malleolus Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.64XA.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized templates, Verify imaging reports

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect billing and potential claim denial., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify documentation for correct side before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential underbilling or overbilling., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies lateral malleolus, not bimalleolar.

Impact

Misclassification of fracture type can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular training on fracture coding.

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 Lateral Malleolus Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Lateral Malleolus Fracture

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

Initial encounter for lateral malleolus fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Imaging findings
  • Fracture type and laterality
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with pain after fall. X-ray shows nondisplaced fracture of right lateral malleolus. Closed treatment with CAM boot applied.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right ankle fracture, refer to ortho.
Good Documentation Example
Nondisplaced closed fracture of right lateral malleolus (S82.64XA) confirmed by X-ray. No medial malleolus involvement. Treated with CAM boot, NWB x6 weeks.
Explanation
The good example provides specific fracture details, laterality, and treatment plan.

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

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

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more