ICD-10 Coding for Sternum Fracture(S22.20, S22.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Sternum Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Sternum Fracture
S22.2-S22.23Primary Range
Fracture of sternum
This range includes all specific types of sternum fractures, such as manubrium, sternal body, and xiphoid process fractures.
Injuries of other and unspecified intrathoracic organs
Used for associated intrathoracic injuries like hemothorax that may accompany sternum fractures.
Unintentional cut, puncture, perforation or hemorrhage during surgical and medical care
Used for CPR-related fractures of the sternum.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S22.20 | Unspecified fracture of sternum | Use when the specific part of the sternum fractured is not documented. |
|
| S22.21 | Fracture of manubrium | Use when the fracture is specifically located at the manubrium. |
|
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: sternum fracture icd 10 code
Essential facts and insights about Sternum Fracture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sternum fracture
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Fracture type not specified
Applicable To
- Fracture of sternum NOS
Excludes
- Pathological fracture (M84.4-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan confirming fracture
- Clinical documentation of trauma
Code-Specific Risks
- Lack of specificity may lead to incorrect coding.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies whether the fracture is open or closed.
S22.21 - Fracture of manubrium
Use when the fracture is specifically located at the manubrium.
Applicable To
- Fracture of manubrium sterni
Excludes
- Pathological fracture (M84.4-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing fracture of manubrium
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies fracture location and associated injuries.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sternum Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S22.20.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresents patient's condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify imaging before coding, Consult with provider for clarification
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can affect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use S22.20XA for initial encounters
Impact
Failure to code external causes can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all external causes are documented and coded.
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 Sternum Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Sternum Fracture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Sternum Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Traumatic Sternum Fracture
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Pain assessment
- Imaging results
- Associated injuries
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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