ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S82.252

Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of left tibia

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A displaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the left tibia is a serious injury involving a break in the shinbone, where the bone is broken into several pieces and the fragments are displaced from their normal position. This type of fracture often results from high-impact trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial for optimal healing and to restore function to the affected leg.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: High-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights Sports injuries involving direct blows or twisting forces Severe twisting injuries during physical activity Osteoporosis or weakened bones increasing susceptibility to fractures Pathological fractures due to bone disease or tumors

Key Symptoms: Intense pain in the leg, especially around the tibia Swelling and tenderness in the area Deformity or unusual angulation of the leg Swelling, bruising, and possible bleeding Difficulty bearing weight or walking Palpable bone fragments or crepitus upon movement Loss of normal leg alignment

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis primarily involves a detailed clinical examination followed by imaging studies. X-rays are the most common and effective imaging modality to confirm the presence of a fracture, determine the extent of displacement, and identify the number of fragments. In some cases, CT scans may be utilized to better assess complex fractures, especially if surgical intervention is considered.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches depend on the severity and complexity of the fracture. They typically include: - **Immobilization:** Using a cast or brace to keep the bone in proper position, especially in less severe cases. - **Traction:** In certain situations, to align the bones before surgery. - **Surgical intervention:** Often required for displaced comminuted fractures. Procedures may involve the use of metal plates, screws, or intramedullary nails to stabilize the broken bone fragments. - **Rehabilitation:** Post-treatment physical therapy to restore movement, strength, and function. Weight-bearing activities are gradually resumed based on healing progress. Recovery times vary; generally, it takes several months for the bone to heal appropriately, with full recovery depending on age, overall health, and adherence to treatment protocols.

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 S82.252 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S82.252 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S82.252?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of left tibia and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

Cite this Clinical Reference