ICD-10 Coding for Right Radial Fracture(S52.501A, S52.531A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Radial Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Right Radial Fracture
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S52.501A | Unspecified fracture of the lower end of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounters when the fracture is closed and unspecified. |
|
| S52.531A | Colles' fracture of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture | Use for initial encounters with dorsal displacement. |
|
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 right radial fracture
Essential facts and insights about Right Radial Fracture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for right radial fracture
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of a closed fracture confirmed by imaging.
Applicable To
- Closed fracture of right distal radius
Excludes
- Open fracture of right distal radius
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray confirmation of fracture
- Documentation of closed fracture
Code-Specific Risks
- Overuse of unspecified codes can lead to audit issues.
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality and fracture type are documented.
S52.531A - Colles' fracture of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture
Use for initial encounters with dorsal displacement.
Applicable To
- Dorsal displacement of right distal radius
Excludes
- Smith's fracture of right radius
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Dorsal angulation >10°
- Dinner fork deformity
Coding Notes
Document the mechanism of injury and displacement direction.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Personal history of fracture
Z87.81Differential 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 Right Radial Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S52.501A.
Impact
Clinical: Lack of detail can affect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increased risk of audits., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document specific fracture details., Use imaging to confirm fracture type.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if laterality is incorrect., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify and document the correct side of the fracture.
Impact
High use of unspecified codes can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Encourage detailed documentation and use of specific codes.
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 Right Radial Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Right Radial Fracture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Radial Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial Encounter for Right Radial Fracture
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Physical exam findings
- Imaging results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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