ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S62.012

Displaced fracture of distal pole of navicular [scaphoid] bone of left wrist

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A displaced fracture of the distal pole of the navicular, or scaphoid, bone in the left wrist is a type of broken bone where the fracture has shifted from its original position. The scaphoid is a small but critical bone situated on the thumb side of the wrist, connecting the radius to the bones of the hand. Such injuries are often the result of a fall onto an outstretched hand and can significantly impact wrist function if not properly treated. Proper diagnosis and timely management are crucial to restore wrist stability and prevent long-term complications.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Falls onto an outstretched hand, especially with the wrist in extension or supination Direct trauma or blow to the wrist area High-impact sports injuries Motor vehicle accidents Overuse or repetitive stress leading to weakening of the bone

Key Symptoms: Pain localized on the thumb side of the wrist, which may worsen with movement Swelling around the wrist joint Tenderness when touching the affected area Difficulty moving or rotating the wrist Reduced grip strength Possible visible deformity if the fracture is severe or significantly displaced

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a detailed physical examination and imaging tests. Radiographs (X-rays) are the first-line tool to visualize the fracture and assess displacement. Sometimes, specialized imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans may be employed to evaluate the extent of the injury and any associated ligament damage. Accurate diagnosis is critical to determine the proper treatment approach and to prevent complications such as nonunion or avascular necrosis.

Treatment Protocols: Managing a displaced scaphoid fracture generally requires medical intervention to realign the broken bones and stabilize them. Treatment 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 S62.012 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S62.012 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S62.012?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Displaced fracture of distal pole of navicular [scaphoid] bone of left wrist and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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