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ICD-10 Coding for Proximal Fibula Fracture(S82.41xA, S82.42xA)

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

Also known as:

Fibular Head FractureUpper Fibula Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Proximal Fibula Fracture

S82.41-S82.42Primary Range

Fracture of proximal fibula

This range includes codes for fractures of the proximal fibula, specifying laterality and encounter type.

Sprain and strain of ankle

Relevant for coding associated ankle injuries, such as in Maisonneuve fractures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S82.41xAFracture of proximal right fibula, initial encounterUse for initial encounter of a closed fracture of the proximal right fibula.
  • X-ray or CT confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical signs such as localized tenderness and swelling
S82.42xAFracture of proximal left fibula, initial encounterUse for initial encounter of a closed fracture of the proximal left fibula.
  • X-ray or CT confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical signs such as localized tenderness and swelling

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 proximal fibula fracture

Essential facts and insights about Proximal Fibula Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a proximal fibula fracture is S82.41xA for the right side and S82.42xA for the left side, specifying initial encounter.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for proximal fibula fracture

Fracture of proximal right fibula, initial encounter
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of fracture confirmed by imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of fracture including laterality and type

Applicable To

  • Closed fracture of proximal right fibula
  • Nondisplaced fracture of proximal right fibula

Excludes

  • Fracture of distal fibula

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray or CT confirmation of fracture
  • Clinical signs such as localized tenderness and swelling

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation
  • Failure to specify fracture type (open vs. closed)

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'proximal' and laterality to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Personal history of fracture

Z87.81
Use for follow-up visits to indicate history of fracture.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of tibia shaft

S82.3xxA
Use when both tibia and fibula are fractured, and the tibia is the primary focus.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Proximal Fibula Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.41xA.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include laterality in the documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data for clinical and research purposes.

Mitigation Strategy

Specify 'proximal' and laterality in documentation.

Impact

Using unspecified codes increases audit risk.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'proximal' and laterality.

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 Proximal Fibula Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Proximal Fibula Fracture

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

Initial encounter for proximal fibula fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Mechanism of injury
  • Physical examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute lateral knee pain after fall. Point tenderness over proximal fibula. X-ray shows nondisplaced fracture at the fibular head. No ankle instability on exam.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Fibula fracture – treat with boot.
Good Documentation Example
Closed, nondisplaced fracture of the left proximal fibula confirmed by AP/lateral radiographs. No associated tibial or ankle injury.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture location, type, and associated findings, which are necessary for accurate coding.

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

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