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ICD-10 Coding for Left Pubic Rami Fracture(S32.31XA, S32.32XA)

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

Also known as:

Left Superior Pubic Ramus FractureLeft Inferior Pubic Ramus Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Pubic Rami Fracture

S32.3Primary Range

Fracture of pubis

This range includes codes for fractures of the pubic rami, which are part of the pelvic ring.

Fracture of sacrum

Relevant for coding when sacral fractures coexist with pubic rami fractures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S32.31XAFracture of left superior pubic ramus, initial encounterUse for initial encounter of closed fracture of the left superior pubic ramus.
  • Imaging confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical documentation of fall or trauma
S32.32XAFracture of left inferior pubic ramus, initial encounterUse for initial encounter of closed fracture of the left inferior pubic ramus.
  • Imaging confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical documentation of fall or trauma

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 pubic rami fracture

Essential facts and insights about Left Pubic Rami Fracture

For a left pubic rami fracture, use ICD-10 code S32.31XA or S32.32XA, specifying the initial encounter.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left pubic rami fracture

Fracture of left superior pubic ramus, initial encounter
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging confirms fracture of the left superior pubic ramus.

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation specifies initial encounter and closed fracture.

Applicable To

  • Closed fracture of left superior pubic ramus

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical documentation of fall or trauma

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure laterality is specified
  • Confirm initial encounter status

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the exact location and laterality of the fracture.

Ancillary Codes

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

Personal history of (healed) pelvic fracture

Z87.81
Use for follow-up visits after the fracture has healed.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of left inferior pubic ramus, initial encounter

S32.32XA
Differentiate based on the specific location of the fracture (superior vs. inferior).

Fracture of left superior pubic ramus, initial encounter

S32.31XA
Differentiate based on the specific location of the fracture (superior vs. inferior).

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Pubic Rami Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S32.31XA.

Impact

Clinical: Can lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include laterality in documentation., Use templates that prompt for specific details.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts the accuracy of health records and data analysis.

Mitigation Strategy

Specify the exact location and laterality of the fracture in documentation.

Impact

Using deleted codes for anterior pelvic fractures can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure current coding guidelines are followed and use E/M codes for anterior fractures.

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 Pubic Rami Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Left Pubic Rami Fracture

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

Emergency Department Visit for Fracture

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Patient history of fall or trauma
  • Imaging results confirming fracture
  • Initial encounter status
  • Specific location and laterality of fracture

Example Documentation

Patient presents with left groin pain after a fall. X-ray confirms a closed fracture of the left superior pubic ramus. Initial encounter.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pelvic fracture after fall.
Good Documentation Example
Closed displaced fracture of left superior pubic ramus with 4mm separation, initial encounter following ground-level fall.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture location, displacement, and encounter type.

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

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