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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.009

S42.009

Billable

Fracture of unspecified part of unspecified clavicle

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/24/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.009 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of unspecified part of unspecified clavicle.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S42.009 code refers to a fracture of the clavicle that does not specify the exact location or type of fracture. Clavicle fractures are common injuries, often resulting from falls, direct blows, or sports-related incidents. The clavicle, or collarbone, connects the arm to the body and plays a crucial role in shoulder stability and movement. Fractures can occur in various parts of the clavicle, including the medial (inner) third, lateral (outer) third, or the midshaft. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the shoulder. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays. Treatment may vary from conservative management, including rest and immobilization, to surgical intervention in cases of severe displacement or instability. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of treatment outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of specificity regarding the fracture location
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on fracture type
  • Potential for misdiagnosis with other shoulder injuries
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support the diagnosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the fracture type
  • Inconsistent clinical notes regarding the mechanism of injury
  • Lack of imaging reports to support the diagnosis
  • Use of this code without a clear treatment plan

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with shoulder pain after a fall or sports injury, requiring evaluation for possible clavicle fracture.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly indicates the need for imaging and the rationale for the chosen treatment approach.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of the patient's injury, including vital signs, pain level, and initial treatment provided.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients arriving at the emergency department with acute shoulder pain following trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed to support the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.009 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, this code should be used when the specific site of the clavicle fracture is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the use of an unspecified code and consider more specific codes if available

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.009 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23630CPT Code

Open treatment of clavicular fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for a displaced clavicle fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure performed and the indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that the surgical notes clearly correlate with the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding options, but the use of unspecified codes like S42.009 may lead to increased scrutiny during audits. Coders must ensure that documentation supports the use of this code to avoid potential denials.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding options, but the use of unspecified codes like S42.009 may lead to increased scrutiny during audits. Coders must ensure that documentation supports the use of this code to avoid potential denials.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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

When should I use S42.009 instead of a more specific code?

Use S42.009 when the documentation does not specify the exact location or type of clavicle fracture. If the specific site is documented, opt for a more specific code.