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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS32.0

S32.0

Billable

Fracture of lumbar vertebra

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/23/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S32.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of lumbar vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A fracture of the lumbar vertebra refers to a break in one of the five vertebrae located in the lower back (L1-L5). These fractures can occur due to various mechanisms, including trauma from falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries. The lumbar spine is crucial for supporting the upper body and facilitating movement, making fractures in this area particularly impactful. Symptoms often include severe back pain, limited mobility, and potential neurological deficits if the spinal cord or nerves are affected. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries. Treatment may range from conservative management, including pain control and physical therapy, to surgical interventions such as spinal fusion or decompression, especially in cases of instability or neurological compromise. The management of lumbar vertebral fractures is critical, as they can lead to chronic pain and disability if not addressed appropriately.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types (compression, burst, etc.)
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., spinal cord injury, abdominal trauma)
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture location and type
  • Variations in treatment approaches (surgical vs. conservative)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Inconsistent coding of treatment modalities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or vehicular accidents requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of the fracture type and any surgical procedures performed.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of initial assessment, imaging results, and any immediate interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute back pain following trauma, requiring stabilization and imaging.

Billing Considerations

Document all relevant trauma assessments and any potential neurological deficits.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S32.0 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details on treatment approaches and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S32.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Spinal fusion, lumbar

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of unstable lumbar fractures requiring stabilization.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lumbar fractures, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lumbar fractures, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lumbar fractures, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and complications.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of lumbar vertebra fractures?

Common causes include falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and osteoporosis-related fractures.

How is a lumbar vertebra fracture diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.

What are the treatment options for lumbar vertebra fractures?

Treatment may include conservative management with pain control and physical therapy or surgical interventions like spinal fusion.