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ICD-10 Coding for Thoracic Compression Fracture(S22.060A, M80.08XA)

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

Also known as:

Thoracic Vertebral Compression FractureThoracic Wedge Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Thoracic Compression Fracture

S22.0-S22.1Primary Range

Fracture of thoracic vertebra

Covers traumatic fractures of the thoracic vertebrae.

Collapsed vertebra, not elsewhere classified

Used for non-traumatic, pathological fractures.

Osteoporosis with current pathological fracture

Used for fractures due to osteoporosis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S22.060AWedge compression fracture of T7-T8 vertebra, initial encounterUse for traumatic fractures of the T7-T8 vertebrae.
  • History of trauma
  • Imaging confirmation (e.g., CT showing cortical disruption)
M80.08XAAge-related osteoporosis with current pathological fracture, vertebra, initial encounterUse for osteoporotic fractures of the thoracic vertebrae.
  • DEXA scan showing osteoporosis
  • Minimal trauma mechanism

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 thoracic compression fracture

Essential facts and insights about Thoracic Compression Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a traumatic thoracic compression fracture is S22.060A, while M80.08XA is used for osteoporotic fractures.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for thoracic compression fracture

Wedge compression fracture of T7-T8 vertebra, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of trauma history and imaging confirmation.

Applicable To

  • Traumatic wedge compression fracture of T7-T8

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • History of trauma
  • Imaging confirmation (e.g., CT showing cortical disruption)

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use for osteoporotic fractures.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies trauma as the cause.

Ancillary Codes

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

Traumatic pneumothorax

S27.0
Use if pneumothorax is present with the fracture.

Personal history of (healed) osteoporosis fracture

Z87.310
Use to indicate history of osteoporosis fractures.

Differential Codes

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

Age-related osteoporosis with current pathological fracture, vertebra, initial encounter

M80.08XA
Use when fracture is due to osteoporosis, not trauma.

Wedge compression fracture of T7-T8 vertebra, initial encounter

S22.060A
Use when fracture is due to trauma.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Thoracic Compression Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S22.060A.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Denied claims due to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the mechanism of injury., Include osteoporosis status if relevant.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use M80.08XA for fractures due to osteoporosis.

Impact

Using traumatic codes for osteoporotic fractures.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation clearly states the cause of the fracture.

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 Thoracic Compression Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Thoracic Compression Fracture

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

Osteoporotic Thoracic Fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Osteoporosis status
  • Imaging findings

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Thoracic compression fracture.
Good Documentation Example
78F with osteoporosis (T-score -3.1) presents with acute back pain after sneezing. MRI confirms T8 compression fracture.
Explanation
The good example includes osteoporosis status and mechanism of injury.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Thoracic Compression Fracture? Ask your questions below.

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