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ICD-10 Coding for Left ACL Tear(S83.512A)

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

Also known as:

Left Anterior Cruciate Ligament TearLeft ACL Rupture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left ACL Tear

S83.5Primary Range

Sprain and strain of joints and ligaments of knee

This range includes codes for sprains and strains of the knee, specifically the ACL.

Chronic instability of knee

This range is used for chronic conditions related to knee instability, including chronic ACL insufficiency.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for left ACL tear

Essential facts and insights about Left ACL Tear

The ICD-10 code for a left ACL tear is S83.512A, used for initial encounters with a complete tear confirmed by MRI.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left acl tear

Sprain of anterior cruciate ligament of left knee, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI shows complete tear of ACL

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation specifies 'complete tear' or 'rupture'

Applicable To

  • Complete tear of left ACL
  • Rupture of left ACL

Excludes

  • Chronic instability of knee (M23.5-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI confirmation of complete tear
  • Positive Lachman test

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use for chronic conditions
  • Omission of laterality

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'complete tear' for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Tear of meniscus, current injury

S83.2XXA
Use when there is a concurrent meniscal tear.

Differential Codes

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

Chronic instability of knee

M23.5-
Use for chronic conditions without recent trauma.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left ACL Tear to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S83.512A.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 requirements., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document laterality in clinical notes.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use M23.5- for chronic conditions.

Impact

Using 'A' for follow-up visits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure encounter type is correctly documented.

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

Documentation Templates for Left ACL Tear

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

Initial Diagnosis of Left ACL Tear

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

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

Example Documentation

Patient reports left knee 'giving way' during soccer pivot. Lachman test: 8mm anterior translation with soft endpoint. MRI confirms complete midsubstance ACL tear without meniscal involvement.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Left knee pain
Good Documentation Example
Acute complete tear of left ACL confirmed by MRI
Explanation
The good example specifies the tear and confirms it with MRI, which is necessary for accurate coding.

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

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