ICD-10 Coding for Fracture of Left Distal Fibula(S82.642A, S82.842A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Fracture of Left Distal Fibula. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Fracture of Left Distal Fibula
S82.6-S82.8Primary Range
Fractures of the lower leg, including fibula
This range includes specific codes for fractures of the fibula, including the distal end.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S82.642A | Nondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of left fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use when the fracture is confirmed as nondisplaced and involves the lateral malleolus of the left fibula. |
|
| S82.842A | Other fracture of lower end of left fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use when the fracture is not specifically of the lateral malleolus or is described as comminuted or oblique. |
|
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 nondisplaced fracture left distal fibula
Essential facts and insights about Fracture of Left Distal Fibula
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fracture left distal fibula
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Fracture confirmed as nondisplaced and involves lateral malleolus
documentation Criteria
- X-ray or imaging report confirms nondisplaced fracture
Applicable To
- Nondisplaced lateral malleolus fracture
Excludes
- Displaced fracture of lateral malleolus
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray confirmation of nondisplaced fracture
- Documentation of closed fracture
Code-Specific Risks
- Assuming displacement status without documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality and displacement status are documented.
S82.842A - Other fracture of lower end of left fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture
Use when the fracture is not specifically of the lateral malleolus or is described as comminuted or oblique.
Applicable To
- Comminuted fracture of distal fibula
Excludes
- Nondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT or X-ray showing comminuted or oblique fracture
- Documentation of closed fracture
Coding Notes
Ensure fracture type and location are clearly documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other fracture of lower end of left fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture
S82.842ANondisplaced fracture of lateral malleolus of left fibula, initial encounter for closed fracture
S82.642ADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fracture of Left Distal Fibula to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S82.642A.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the side of the body affected, Use templates that prompt for laterality
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates, Compliance: Increases risk of audit issues, Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies fracture type and location to use the most specific code.
Impact
Coding fractures without specific details can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all fracture details are documented and coded accurately.
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 Fracture of Left Distal Fibula, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Fracture of Left Distal Fibula
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Fracture of Left Distal Fibula. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Patient presentation
- Imaging results
- Fracture type and location
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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