ICD-10 Coding for Radius Fracture(S52.501A, S52.502A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Radius Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Radius Fracture
S52.5-S52.6Primary Range
Fractures of the radius
This range includes all types of radius fractures, including distal, shaft, and combined radius and ulna fractures.
Physeal fractures of the radius
This range is used for fractures involving the growth plate 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| S52.501A | Unspecified fracture of the lower end of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounter of a closed fracture of the distal right radius when no further specificity is documented. |
|
| S52.502A | Unspecified fracture of the lower end of left radius, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounter of a closed fracture of the distal left radius when no further specificity is documented. |
|
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 distal radius fracture
Essential facts and insights about Radius Fracture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for radius fracture
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of fracture on X-ray
Applicable To
- Distal radius fracture
Excludes
- Physeal fracture of radius (S59.2-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray showing fracture at the distal end of the right radius
- Clinical notes indicating initial encounter for closed fracture
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure laterality and encounter type are documented to avoid denials.
Coding Notes
- Ensure to document the type of fracture and encounter details.
S52.502A - Unspecified fracture of the lower end of left radius, initial encounter for closed fracture
Use for initial encounter of a closed fracture of the distal left radius when no further specificity is documented.
Applicable To
- Distal radius fracture
Excludes
- Physeal fracture of radius (S59.2-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray showing fracture at the distal end of the left radius
- Clinical notes indicating initial encounter for closed fracture
Coding Notes
Ensure to document the type of fracture and encounter details.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Prosthetic loosening
T84.030ADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Physeal fracture of the radius
S59.2-Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Radius Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.501A.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terminology, Include imaging findings in notes
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect character can lead to claim denials or reduced payments., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate medical records and statistics.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure the 7th character accurately reflects the encounter type (A for initial, D for subsequent, etc.).
Impact
Risk of miscoding due to lack of specificity in documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement thorough documentation practices and regular coding audits.
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 Radius Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Radius Fracture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Radius Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial encounter for distal radius fracture
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Mechanism of injury
- X-ray findings
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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