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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.265

S42.265

Billable

Nondisplaced fracture of lesser tuberosity of left humerus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.265 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced fracture of lesser tuberosity of left humerus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced fracture of the lesser tuberosity of the left humerus typically occurs due to trauma, such as a fall or direct impact to the shoulder. The lesser tuberosity serves as an attachment point for the subscapularis muscle, which is a key component of the rotator cuff. While the fracture itself does not displace the bone fragments, it can lead to significant pain, limited range of motion, and potential complications if not properly managed. Patients may present with shoulder pain, swelling, and difficulty with arm movement, particularly with internal rotation. Diagnosis is often confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, which can help assess the extent of the injury and rule out associated injuries to the rotator cuff or other structures in the shoulder. Treatment typically involves conservative management, including rest, ice, and physical therapy, although surgical intervention may be necessary in cases where the fracture affects shoulder function or is associated with other injuries.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of shoulder anatomy and biomechanics.
  • Differentiation from other types of humeral fractures.
  • Potential for associated rotator cuff injuries.
  • Documentation must specify laterality and fracture type.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury.
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right).
  • Misclassification of fracture type (nondisplaced vs. displaced).
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes if surgery is performed, including type of fracture and fixation method.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of the injury and any associated procedures.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing patient response to therapy and functional improvements.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following nondisplaced fractures and rotator cuff injuries.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and patient compliance.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.265 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, laterality, and any associated injuries
  • Include details from imaging studies and clinical assessments

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.265 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

Clinical Scenario

Used when a rotator cuff tear is present alongside the fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the relationship between the fracture and any surgical interventions.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S42.265 provides a clear distinction for nondisplaced fractures, which aids in treatment planning and outcome tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S42.265 provides a clear distinction for nondisplaced fractures, which aids in treatment planning and outcome tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S42.265 provides a clear distinction for nondisplaced fractures, which aids in treatment planning and outcome tracking.

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 significance of the lesser tuberosity fracture?

The lesser tuberosity is crucial for the attachment of the subscapularis muscle, and a fracture can impact shoulder function and stability.