ICD-10 Coding for Left Distal Radius Fracture(S52.502A, S52.572A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Distal Radius Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Distal Radius Fracture
S52.5Primary Range
Fracture of the distal radius
This range includes all fractures of the distal radius, specifying laterality and encounter type.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S52.502A | Unspecified fracture of the distal radius, left arm, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounters with closed, unspecified distal radius fractures. |
|
| S52.572A | Other intra-articular fracture of the distal radius, left arm, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounters with intra-articular fractures. |
|
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 left distal radius fracture
Essential facts and insights about Left Distal Radius Fracture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left distal radius fx
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of closed fracture on X-ray
Applicable To
- Closed fracture of distal radius
Excludes
- Open fracture of distal radius
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray confirmation of fracture
- Initial encounter documentation
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-coding if fracture type is specified in documentation.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies fracture type to avoid unspecified coding.
S52.572A - Other intra-articular fracture of the distal radius, left arm, initial encounter for closed fracture
Use for initial encounters with intra-articular fractures.
Applicable To
- Intra-articular fracture with articular step-off
Excludes
- Extra-articular fracture
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing articular involvement
- Documentation of step-off ≥2mm
Coding Notes
Document articular involvement and step-off measurements.
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.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Distal Radius Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.502A.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment planning., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and compliance issues., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure CT scans are reviewed and findings documented., Train staff on importance of detailed fracture documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies fracture type and use the corresponding specific code.
Impact
High risk of audit if articular involvement is not documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all intra-articular fractures are confirmed with imaging and 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 Distal Radius Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Distal Radius Fracture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Distal Radius Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial Encounter for Closed Fracture
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Fracture type
- Exact location
- Imaging modality
- Articular involvement
- Fragment count
- Displacement details
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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