ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S62.661

Nondisplaced fracture of distal phalanx of left index finger

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A nondisplaced fracture of the distal phalanx of the left index finger occurs when the small bone at the tip of your finger breaks but remains aligned properly. This type of fracture typically results from trauma, like a direct blow, crushing injury, or fall, and usually heals well with proper care. Knowing more about this injury can help you understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Direct trauma to the fingertip, such as hitting or crushing the finger Falls that land directly on the finger Crushing injuries from accidents involving machinery or heavy objects Sports injuries involving impacts or blows to the finger Repetitive stress or overuse leading to weakening of the bone, though less common

Key Symptoms: Pain and tenderness at the tip of the finger Swelling and bruising around the injured area Difficulty moving or bending the finger Sensitivity to touch at the fracture site Loss of normal finger function, especially when grasping or pressing Visible deformity is rare in nondisplaced fractures, but may occur if swelling is significant

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis generally involves a physical examination and medical history review. The healthcare provider will look for signs of swelling, tenderness, and limited movement. Confirmation requires imaging, typically X-rays, to visualize the fracture. An X-ray will show if the bone is broken and whether it is displaced or remains aligned, which influences treatment options.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment aims to heal the fracture while maintaining finger function. Since this is a nondisplaced fracture, conservative management is often sufficient. Common approaches include: - Resting the finger and avoiding activities that worsen pain - Immobilizing the finger with a splint or stiff cast to keep the bone in position - Elevating the hand to reduce swelling - Applying ice packs to minimize pain and swelling in the initial days - Over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by a healthcare professional Healing generally takes several weeks, during which follow-up visits may be necessary to monitor progress. Surgical intervention is rarely required unless the fracture becomes displaced or does not heal properly. Rehabilitation might include gentle range-of-motion exercises after immobilization to restore finger flexibility and strength. Preventive measures include wearing protective gear during sports and avoiding risky activities that could lead to injuries.

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 S62.661 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S62.661 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S62.661?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Nondisplaced fracture of distal phalanx of left index finger and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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