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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS32.010

S32.010

Billable

Wedge compression fracture of first lumbar vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S32.010 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of wedge compression fracture of first lumbar vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A wedge compression fracture of the first lumbar vertebra (L1) occurs when the vertebra collapses due to trauma or pathological conditions, resulting in a wedge-shaped deformity. This type of fracture is often associated with significant trauma, such as falls or motor vehicle accidents, and can lead to severe pain, neurological deficits, and instability of the spine. Patients may present with acute back pain, limited mobility, and, in some cases, neurological symptoms if the spinal cord or nerve roots are affected. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to confirm the fracture and assess for any associated injuries. Treatment may vary from conservative management, including pain control and physical therapy, to surgical interventions such as vertebroplasty or spinal fusion, especially in cases of instability or neurological compromise. The management of wedge compression fractures requires a multidisciplinary approach, often involving orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and rehabilitation specialists.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of vertebral fractures (compression vs. burst)
  • Identifying associated injuries in abdominal and pelvic regions
  • Understanding the implications of neurological involvement
  • Variability in treatment approaches (surgical vs. conservative)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to document associated injuries (e.g., abdominal trauma)
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of acute lumbar fractures, surgical interventions for unstable fractures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture type and any neurological assessments.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive trauma assessments, imaging results, and initial management plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of trauma patients with suspected spinal injuries.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S32.010 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including specificity regarding the type of fracture and any associated injuries
  • Ensure compliance with documentation standards for trauma cases

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S32.010 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22510CPT Code

Vertebroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for stabilization of wedge compression fractures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the necessity for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding lumbar spine injuries, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding lumbar spine injuries, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 is the primary cause of a wedge compression fracture?

Wedge compression fractures are primarily caused by trauma, such as falls or accidents, and can also occur in patients with weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis.