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ICD-10 Coding for Left Knee Fracture(S82.012A, S82.015D)

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

Also known as:

Left Patellar FractureLeft Knee Cap Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Knee Fracture

S82.0-S82.9Primary Range

Fractures of the lower leg, including ankle

This range includes specific codes for fractures of the patella, tibia, and fibula, which are relevant for coding left knee fractures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S82.012ADisplaced osteochondral fracture of left patella, initial encounter for closed fractureUse for initial encounter of a displaced osteochondral fracture of the left patella.
  • X-ray showing articular surface disruption
  • Clinical notes indicating inability to extend knee
S82.015DNondisplaced osteochondral fracture of left patella, subsequent encounter for fracture with routine healingUse for subsequent encounters of a nondisplaced osteochondral fracture of the left patella.
  • Healing callus on CT
  • Physical therapy notes showing range of motion improvement

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 left knee fracture

Essential facts and insights about Left Knee Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a displaced osteochondral fracture of the left patella is S82.012A for initial encounters.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left knee fracture

Displaced osteochondral fracture of left patella, initial encounter for closed fracture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of articular surface disruption on imaging

Applicable To

  • Displaced fracture of left patella

Excludes

  • Stress fracture of patella

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray showing articular surface disruption
  • Clinical notes indicating inability to extend knee

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure correct 7th character for encounter type.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies fracture type and encounter type.

Ancillary Codes

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

Periprosthetic fracture around internal prosthetic knee joint, initial encounter

M97.01XA
Use when fracture is associated with a prosthetic knee joint.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of unspecified part of left patella, initial encounter for closed fracture

S82.001A
Use when specific part of patella fracture is not identified.

Displaced osteochondral fracture of left patella, initial encounter for closed fracture

S82.012A
Use when fracture is displaced.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Knee Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.012A.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging reports are included in documentation., Review clinical notes for completeness.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Verify encounter type and healing status before assigning the 7th character.

Impact

Incorrect classification of fracture type can lead to audit discrepancies.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular training on fracture classification and coding updates.

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 Left Knee Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Left Knee Fracture

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

Initial encounter for displaced left patellar fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Fracture type and displacement
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a displaced fracture of the left patella following a fall. X-ray confirms articular surface disruption. Plan includes immobilization and follow-up imaging.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has a broken kneecap.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with a displaced fracture of the left patella, confirmed by X-ray showing articular surface disruption.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture type and imaging confirmation.

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

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