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ICD-10 Coding for Left Olecranon Fracture(S52.022A)

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

Also known as:

Fracture of the left elbowLeft elbow fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Olecranon Fracture

S52.0-S52.9Primary Range

Fractures of forearm

This range includes all fractures of the forearm, including the olecranon process.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for displaced left olecranon fracture

Essential facts and insights about Left Olecranon Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a displaced left olecranon fracture without intraarticular extension, initial encounter, is S52.022A.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left olecranon fracture

Displaced fracture of the olecranon process without intraarticular extension, left elbow, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Displacement confirmed by imaging

coding Criteria

  • Initial encounter for the fracture

Applicable To

  • Displaced fracture of left olecranon

Excludes

  • Fracture of the right olecranon
  • Intraarticular extension

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • X-ray confirmation of displacement
  • Clinical documentation of initial encounter

Code-Specific Risks

  • Missing laterality
  • Incorrect encounter type

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the displacement and laterality clearly.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fall on same level from slipping, tripping and stumbling, initial encounter

W00.0XXA
Use to describe the external cause of the fracture.

Differential Codes

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

Nondisplaced fracture of the olecranon process, left elbow, initial encounter

S52.012A
Use when the fracture is nondisplaced as confirmed by imaging.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Olecranon Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.022A.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to confusion in patient care continuity., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include the 7th character for encounter type., Review coding guidelines regularly.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify left or right in the documentation and coding.

Impact

Failure to use the correct 7th character for encounter type.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular training sessions for coding staff.

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

Documentation Templates for Left Olecranon Fracture

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

Initial encounter for displaced left olecranon fracture

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

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

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a displaced fracture of the left olecranon after a fall. X-ray confirms displacement. Plan for ORIF.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Left elbow fracture.
Good Documentation Example
Displaced fracture of left olecranon process without intraarticular extension, confirmed by X-ray.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture type, location, and confirmation method.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Left Olecranon Fracture? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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