ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S89.029

Salter-Harris Type II physeal fracture of upper end of unspecified tibia

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A Salter-Harris Type II physeal fracture occurs in children and adolescents where the growth plate (physis) of the upper part of the tibia, one of the bones in the lower leg, is fractured. This specific injury involves a fracture that passes through the growth plate and extends into the metaphysis, the wider part of the bone shaft. Proper diagnosis and management are essential to ensure normal bone growth and prevent future complications.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Sports injuries, especially during activities involving jumping or direct impact to the knee or lower leg Falls onto the knee or leg Trauma from motor vehicle accidents Twisting or twisting movements that exert excessive force on the upper tibia Accidental impacts during physical activities or recreational play

Key Symptoms: Pain localized around the knee or upper shin area Swelling and tenderness near the injury site Difficulty or pain when bearing weight or walking Deformity or abnormalities in the shape of the knee or leg in severe cases Limited range of motion in the knee joint Possible bruising around the injury

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: The evaluation typically involves a physical examination followed by imaging studies. X-rays are the primary tools used to visualize the fracture, identify the type, and determine the extent of the injury. In some cases, additional imaging, such as MRI, may be recommended to assess soft tissue involvement or to better evaluate the growth plate if the X-ray results are unclear. Accurate diagnosis is vital to plan appropriate treatment and monitor healing progress.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment options depend on the severity and specific characteristics of the fracture. Common approaches include: - Immobilization with a cast or brace to keep the bone in place, allowing healing while minimizing movement - Realignment procedures if the fracture is displaced - Surgical intervention in cases where the fracture is unstable or cannot be aligned properly with non-surgical methods - Regular follow-up X-rays to monitor healing and growth plate integrity In children and adolescents, careful management is essential to prevent growth disturbances that could affect limb length or development. Physical therapy might be recommended during recovery to restore mobility and strength. The prognosis generally depends on the fracture severity and how quickly and effectively it is treated.

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 S89.029 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S89.029 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S89.029?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Salter-Harris Type II physeal fracture of upper end of unspecified tibia and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

Cite this Clinical Reference