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ICD-10 Coding for SLAP Tear(S43.431A, M75.81)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for SLAP Tear. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior TearSuperior Glenoid Labrum Lesion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to SLAP Tear

S43.431-S43.439Primary Range

Dislocation and sprain of joints and ligaments of shoulder girdle

This range includes codes for traumatic SLAP tears, which are common in acute injuries.

Other shoulder lesions

This range is relevant for chronic or degenerative SLAP tears without recent trauma.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S43.431ASuperior glenoid labrum lesion of right shoulder, initial encounterUse for initial encounters of acute traumatic SLAP tears.
  • MRI-confirmed superior labral tear between 10-2 o’clock positions
  • Positive O'Brien's test
M75.81Other shoulder lesions, right shoulderUse for chronic or degenerative SLAP tears without recent trauma.
  • MRI showing labral degeneration without acute trauma
  • Progressive shoulder instability

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 SLAP tear

Essential facts and insights about SLAP Tear

The ICD-10 code for an acute SLAP tear is S43.431A, while chronic SLAP tears may use M75.81.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for slap tear

Superior glenoid labrum lesion of right shoulder, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI shows contrast extravasation into superior labrum

documentation Criteria

  • Operative note specifies SLAP lesion and repair details

Applicable To

  • Acute traumatic SLAP tear

Excludes

  • Degenerative SLAP tear (M75.81)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI-confirmed superior labral tear between 10-2 o’clock positions
  • Positive O'Brien's test

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using for degenerative tears

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'SLAP lesion' and the tear's clock position.

Ancillary Codes

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

Arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical; repair of SLAP lesion

29807
Use when arthroscopic repair of SLAP lesion is performed.

Arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical; debridement, limited

29822
Use when debridement of SLAP lesion is performed.

Differential Codes

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

Other shoulder lesions, right shoulder

M75.81
Use for chronic or degenerative SLAP tears without recent trauma.

Superior glenoid labrum lesion of right shoulder, initial encounter

S43.431A
Use for acute traumatic SLAP tears.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting SLAP Tear to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S43.431A.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment records., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use detailed operative notes., Include imaging results in the patient's record.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect billing may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use 29806 for inferior labrum repairs.

Impact

Improper use of modifiers when billing for multiple procedures.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation supports the use of modifiers.

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 SLAP Tear, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for SLAP Tear

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for SLAP Tear. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute Traumatic SLAP Tear Repair

Specialty: Orthopedic Surgery

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Physical exam findings
  • MRI results
  • Surgical details

Example Documentation

Patient presented with shoulder pain after a fall. MRI confirmed a SLAP tear from 11-1 o'clock. Arthroscopic repair was performed using 2 anchors.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Labral tear repaired.
Good Documentation Example
Arthroscopic repair of Type II SLAP lesion using 2 anchors at 11-1 o'clock.
Explanation
The good example specifies the type of SLAP lesion and the exact repair details, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for SLAP Tear? Ask your questions below.

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