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ICD-10 Coding for Right Humerus Fracture(S42.291A)

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

Also known as:

Fracture of Right HumerusRight Arm Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Right Humerus Fracture

S42.2-S42.3Primary Range

Fracture of humerus

This range includes codes for fractures of the humerus, specifically addressing different parts and types of fractures.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for right humerus fracture

Essential facts and insights about Right Humerus Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a displaced fracture of the upper end of the right humerus, initial encounter for closed fracture, is S42.291A.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for right humerus fracture

Displaced fracture of upper end of right humerus, initial encounter for closed fracture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Radiographic evidence of fracture displacement

documentation Criteria

  • Clear documentation of initial encounter and closed fracture

Applicable To

  • Displaced fracture of proximal right humerus

Excludes

  • Pathological fracture (M84.4-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Radiographic confirmation of displacement
  • Documentation of closed fracture
  • Initial encounter status

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation
  • Missing encounter type

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies displacement, laterality, and encounter type.

Ancillary Codes

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

Periprosthetic fracture around internal prosthetic right shoulder joint, initial encounter

M97.11XA
Use when fracture occurs around a shoulder prosthesis.

Differential Codes

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

Pathological fracture of right humerus

S42.25xA
Use when fracture is due to underlying disease like osteoporosis.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Humerus Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S42.291A.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to vague clinical records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim rejections.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify fracture details., Use specific codes for laterality and encounter type.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied or delayed., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify 'right' or 'left' in documentation.

Impact

Failure to document laterality can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory fields in EHR for 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 Right Humerus Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Right Humerus Fracture

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

Initial Evaluation of Right Humerus Fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

**Mechanism**: Fall from height. **Exam**: Tenderness over proximal right humerus. **Imaging**: X-ray shows displaced fracture. **Plan**: ORIF scheduled.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right arm fracture, treat with sling.
Good Documentation Example
Displaced 3-part Neer II fracture (S42.292A) of proximal right humerus with axillary nerve palsy (G54.0); scheduled for ORIF.
Explanation
The good example provides specific fracture details and planned treatment, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Right Humerus Fracture? Ask your questions below.

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