ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S43.129

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

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Dislocation of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint is an injury where the bones that form this joint—the acromion of the scapula and the clavicle—are displaced from their normal alignment. Specifically, ICD-10 code S43.129 refers to an unspecified dislocation of the AC joint with a significant displacement of 100% to 200%. This type of injury is often associated with trauma or falls onto the shoulder, affecting shoulder stability and mobility.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Falls directly onto the shoulder or outstretched arm Sports injuries, especially contact or high-impact sports Trauma from vehicular accidents Work-related injuries involving shoulder impact Falls from heights or during physical activities

Key Symptoms: Severe pain around the shoulder and collarbone area Visible deformity or bump at the AC joint Swelling and tenderness over the shoulder Limited or restricted shoulder movement A feeling of instability or shoulder weakness Bruising around the shoulder and collarbone

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination where a healthcare provider assesses shoulder alignment, tenderness, and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays are essential to confirm the dislocation and determine the extent of displacement. In some cases, MRI or other advanced imaging might be utilized for detailed evaluation, especially if associated injuries are suspected.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches focus on restoring shoulder stability and relieving pain, which can include: - **Non-surgical management:** - Rest and activity modification - Application of ice packs to reduce swelling - Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications - Sling or shoulder immobilizer to support the joint - Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strengthen shoulder muscles - **Surgical intervention:** - May be considered if dislocation is severe, recurrent, or if non-surgical treatments do not yield improvement - Procedures may involve repositioning the bones, repairing ligaments, or stabilizing the joint with pins or screws Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and treatment modality but generally involves several weeks of immobilization followed by physical therapy.

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 S43.129 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S43.129 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S43.129?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Dislocation of unspecified acromioclavicular joint, 100%-200% displacement and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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