ICD-10 Coding for Left Radial Head Fracture(S52.122A, S52.132A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Radial Head Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Radial Head Fracture
S52.1-Primary Range
Fractures of the head and neck of the radius
This range includes all fractures related to the radial head and neck, which are proximal parts of the radius.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S52.122A | Displaced fracture of head of left radius, initial encounter | Use for initial encounters of displaced fractures of the left radial head. |
|
| S52.132A | Nondisplaced fracture of head of left radius, initial encounter | Use for initial encounters of nondisplaced fractures of the left radial head. |
|
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 radial head fracture
Essential facts and insights about Left Radial Head Fracture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left radial head fracture
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of displacement on imaging
documentation Criteria
- Specification of left side and initial encounter
Applicable To
- Displaced fracture of the left radial head
Excludes
- Fracture of the distal radius
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray or CT showing displacement
- Clinical exam indicating limited supination/pronation
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with distal radius fractures
- Missing laterality or encounter type
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies displacement, laterality, and encounter type.
S52.132A - Nondisplaced fracture of head of left radius, initial encounter
Use for initial encounters of nondisplaced fractures of the left radial head.
Applicable To
- Nondisplaced fracture of the left radial head
Excludes
- Fracture of the distal radius
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray showing no displacement
- Clinical exam consistent with fracture but no displacement
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies nondisplacement, laterality, and encounter type.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Elbow dislocation
S53.0-Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Radial Head Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.122A.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to ambiguity in treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 requirements., Financial: Potential claim denials due to unspecified codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the side of the body affected., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Data Quality: Inaccurate data affecting clinical and billing records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'radial head' to avoid using distal radius codes.
Impact
Audits may focus on the specificity of fracture coding, especially for radial head vs. distal radius.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation clearly differentiates between radial head and other types of radius 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 Radial Head Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Radial Head Fracture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Radial Head Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial encounter for displaced left radial head fracture
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Imaging results
- Physical exam findings
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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