The exact ICD-10 code for a fracture of the shaft of the left fibula is S82.402A. This code specifically applies to an unspecified fracture of the shaft of the left fibula, representing an initial encounter for a closed fracture.
Understanding ICD-10 Codes for Fibula Fractures
ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification) codes are used in healthcare settings to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in conjunction with hospital care in the United States. For a "fibula fracture," the specific code depends on several factors, including the exact location of the fracture, its type (e.g., closed or open), and the encounter type (initial treatment, follow-up, or sequela).
Code for Shaft of Left Fibula Fracture: S82.402A
As mentioned, S82.402A is designated for a fracture of the shaft of the left fibula. Let's break down its components:
- S82: Indicates a fracture of the lower leg, including the ankle.
- S82.4: Specifies a fracture of the shaft of the fibula.
- S82.40: Denotes an unspecified fracture of the shaft of the fibula.
- S82.402: Refers to an unspecified fracture of the shaft of the left fibula.
- A: The seventh character, indicating an initial encounter for a closed fracture.
This specific ICD-10-CM code, S82.402A, is important for administrative and billing purposes. It is categorized within Diagnostic Related Groups (MS-DRG v42.0) for grouping patient care. Such fractures often fall under categories like:
- 562: Fracture, sprain, strain and dislocation except femur, hip, pelvis and thigh with major complications or comorbidities (MCC).
- 563: Fracture, sprain, strain and dislocation except femur, hip, pelvis and thigh without major complications or comorbidities (MCC).
The Importance of Specificity in Coding
While the question broadly asks for "fibula fracture," medical coding requires significant detail. The fibula is a long, thin bone located on the lateral side of the tibia. Fractures can occur at various points along its length, and each location typically has a unique code.
Here are examples of how ICD-10-CM codes for fibula fractures vary based on location and type, all beginning with S82 for lower leg fractures:
| Fracture Location/Type | General ICD-10-CM Code Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lateral Malleolus Fracture | S82.3- | Fracture of the bony prominence on the outer side of the ankle. |
| Shaft of Fibula Fracture | S82.4- | Fracture along the main body of the fibula. |
| Distal End Fibula Fracture | S82.6- | Fracture near the lower end of the fibula, above the ankle joint. |
| Proximal End Fibula Fracture | S82.2- | Fracture near the upper end of the fibula, near the knee. |
Note: The specific 7th character (e.g., 'A', 'D', 'S') must always be added to these codes for a complete and valid diagnosis.
Seventh Character Significance
The seventh character in an ICD-10-CM code provides crucial information about the encounter type for the fracture:
- A: Initial encounter for closed fracture (patient is receiving active treatment for the fracture, e.g., surgical treatment, emergency department encounter, evaluation and continuing treatment by a new physician).
- D: Subsequent encounter for fracture with routine healing (patient is receiving routine care during the healing phase, e.g., cast change, removal of external fixation, medication adjustment).
- S: Sequela (complications or conditions that arise as a direct result of the fracture, such as malunion, nonunion, or residual deformity, after the acute phase has concluded).
Understanding these specific codes and their components ensures accurate medical record-keeping, proper billing, and effective data analysis in healthcare.
