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ICD-10 Coding for Pubic Ramus Fracture(S32.51XA, S32.52XA)

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

Also known as:

Pelvic Ramus FractureInferior Pubic Ramus FractureSuperior Pubic Ramus Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pubic Ramus Fracture

S32.5-S32.8Primary Range

Fractures of the pelvis

This range includes specific codes for fractures of the pubic ramus, both superior and inferior, as well as other pelvic fractures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S32.51XAFracture of superior pubic ramus, initial encounter for closed fractureUse for initial encounters of closed superior pubic ramus fractures.
  • Imaging confirmation of superior pubic ramus fracture
  • Documentation of laterality and displacement status
S32.52XAFracture of inferior pubic ramus, initial encounter for closed fractureUse for initial encounters of closed inferior pubic ramus fractures.
  • Imaging confirmation of inferior pubic ramus fracture
  • Documentation of laterality and displacement status

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 pubic ramus fracture

Essential facts and insights about Pubic Ramus Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a superior pubic ramus fracture is S32.51XA, and for an inferior pubic ramus fracture, it is S32.52XA.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for pubic ramus fracture

Fracture of superior pubic ramus, initial encounter for closed fracture
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed fracture of the superior pubic ramus on imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation of laterality and displacement

Applicable To

  • Superior pubic ramus fracture

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of superior pubic ramus fracture
  • Documentation of laterality and displacement status

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as ischium fracture

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the fracture location as superior pubic ramus.

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 subsequent encounters to indicate a history of fracture.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of ischium, initial encounter for closed fracture

S32.602A
Ischium fractures are located in the posterior inferior pelvis, not the pubic ramus.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pubic Ramus Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S32.51XA.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to unspecified coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include laterality in documentation., Review imaging reports for detailed fracture information.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials or incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of patient records and data analytics.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify anatomical location on imaging and documentation

Impact

Use of unspecified codes can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes specific fracture details 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 Pubic Ramus Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pubic Ramus Fracture

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

Initial encounter for pubic ramus fracture

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Imaging results
  • Fracture location and type
  • Associated injuries

Example Documentation

Patient presents with pelvic pain after a fall. CT scan shows a nondisplaced left inferior pubic ramus fracture. No posterior ring involvement.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pelvic fracture noted on X-ray.
Good Documentation Example
CT pelvis reveals a nondisplaced left inferior pubic ramus fracture with no posterior ring involvement.
Explanation
The good example provides specific fracture location and imaging confirmation, which is necessary for accurate coding.

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

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

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