The exact ICD-9 code for a fracture of the humerus is 812.
Understanding ICD-9 Codes for Humerus Fractures
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes are a standardized system used in healthcare for classifying diseases, injuries, and causes of death. For conditions affecting the humerus, particularly fractures, code 812 is designated. This code falls under the broader category of FRACTURE OF UPPER LIMB (810-819), indicating its place within the musculoskeletal injury classifications.
| ICD-9 Code | Description | Category |
|---|---|---|
| 812 | Fracture of humerus | Fracture of Upper Limb |
This specific code is crucial for medical documentation, billing, and statistical analysis related to humerus injuries.
What Does ICD-9 Code 812 Represent?
The code 812 exclusively identifies a fracture of the humerus, which is the long bone in the upper arm that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. This classification helps medical professionals:
- Accurately document diagnoses: Ensuring clarity in patient records.
- Facilitate billing and reimbursement: Providing a standardized code for insurance claims.
- Track health statistics: Contributing to data on injury prevalence and outcomes.
While ICD-9 has largely been replaced by ICD-10 for most healthcare purposes in the United States, understanding these codes remains relevant for historical data analysis and specific legacy systems.
For more detailed information on specific ICD-9 codes, including subcategories for different types of humerus fractures (e.g., closed vs. open, specific locations), resources like the AAPC's ICD-9 Code Lookup for Fracture of Humerus provide comprehensive breakdowns.
Practical Insights into Humerus Fractures
Humerus fractures can occur due to various reasons, from direct trauma like falls or sports injuries to underlying bone weakening conditions. The severity and location of the fracture within the humerus (e.g., proximal, shaft, distal) can influence treatment approaches.
- Common Causes:
- Direct impact from a fall onto an outstretched arm.
- High-energy trauma, such as car accidents.
- Osteoporosis, leading to fragility fractures in older adults.
- Treatment Varies:
- Non-surgical: Immobilization with a sling, brace, or cast is common for stable fractures.
- Surgical: Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) may be required for complex, displaced, or open fractures.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is typically essential for regaining strength, range of motion, and function after a humerus fracture, regardless of the treatment method.
