ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S43.121

Dislocation of right acromioclavicular joint, 100%-200% displacement

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A dislocation of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint involves the displacement of the collarbone from the shoulder blade at the AC joint, which is where these two bones meet. Specifically, this condition refers to a significant displacement—ranging from 100% to 200%—of the joint on the right side. Such injuries typically result from a direct blow or fall onto the shoulder and can cause substantial pain and limited arm mobility. Recognizing this condition is vital for timely and appropriate management to restore shoulder function.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Direct impact to the shoulder, such as from a fall or collision Trauma during sports activities, especially contact sports like football or hockey Vehicular accidents causing abrupt shoulder force Falls onto the side with the arm in an outstretched or elevated position Falling onto the top of the shoulder with enough force to dislocate the joint

Key Symptoms: Intense pain around the shoulder and collarbone area Visible deformity or bump on the top of the shoulder Swelling and tenderness over the AC joint Limited range of shoulder movement and weakness Discoloration or bruising around the shoulder A feeling of instability or looseness in the shoulder

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a detailed medical history and physical examination, focusing on shoulder tenderness, deformity, and range of motion. Medical imaging is essential for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the extent of displacement. X-rays are commonly used to visualize the displacement of the clavicle relative to the acromion, which helps determine the severity of the injury and guides treatment planning.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies vary based on the severity of the dislocation and the patient's overall health. Options include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is S43.121 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S43.121 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S43.121?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Dislocation of right acromioclavicular joint, 100%-200% displacement and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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