Fracture of alveolus of right mandible
ICD-10 S02.671 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of alveolus of right mandible.
The fracture of the alveolus of the right mandible refers to a break in the bony ridge of the mandible that supports the teeth. This type of fracture is often associated with dental trauma, facial injuries, or direct impacts to the jaw. Clinically, patients may present with pain, swelling, and difficulty in chewing or speaking. The fracture can be classified as simple or compound, depending on whether the skin is broken. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries to the teeth or surrounding structures. Management may include pain control, stabilization of the fracture, and in some cases, surgical intervention to realign the bone and repair any soft tissue damage. Complications can include infection, malocclusion, or nonunion of the fracture, necessitating further treatment. Accurate coding is essential for proper billing and to ensure appropriate care is documented.
Documentation must include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and any imaging results.
Patients presenting with facial trauma from falls, sports injuries, or assaults.
Consideration of concurrent injuries to the teeth or soft tissues is crucial for accurate coding.
Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, fixation methods, and any complications encountered during the procedure.
Surgical repair of the fracture, including the use of plates or screws for stabilization.
Documentation should reflect the complexity of the surgical intervention and any additional procedures performed.
Used when a closed reduction is performed for the fracture.
Documentation must include the method of treatment and any imaging used.
Emergency and surgical specialties should ensure accurate reporting of the procedure performed.
A simple fracture does not break the skin, while a compound fracture does, exposing the bone and increasing the risk of infection.