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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.296

S42.296

Billable

Other nondisplaced fracture of upper end of unspecified humerus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.296 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other nondisplaced fracture of upper end of unspecified humerus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S42.296 code refers to a nondisplaced fracture of the upper end of the humerus, which is a common injury often resulting from falls or direct trauma. This type of fracture is characterized by the bone being cracked but not displaced from its normal alignment. Clinically, patients may present with shoulder pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, to confirm the fracture and rule out associated injuries like dislocations or rotator cuff tears. Treatment often includes conservative management with immobilization, physical therapy, and pain management. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, particularly if there are complications or if the fracture does not heal properly. Understanding the nuances of this code is essential for accurate billing and coding, as it can impact treatment plans and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of fractures
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and location
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., rotator cuff tears)
  • Differentiation from other similar codes (e.g., displaced fractures)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Incorrect coding of fracture type (displaced vs. nondisplaced)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must specify the fracture type and any surgical interventions performed.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes, treatment plans, and patient response to therapy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following nondisplaced humeral fractures.

Billing Considerations

Therapy notes should correlate with the initial diagnosis and treatment plan.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.296 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture's location and type
  • Include any associated injuries or complications in the coding process

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.296 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 injury is present alongside a humeral 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 billing and treatment tracking. S42.296 provides a clear distinction for nondisplaced fractures, facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of billing and treatment tracking. S42.296 provides a clear distinction for nondisplaced fractures, facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing and treatment tracking. S42.296 provides a clear distinction for nondisplaced fractures, facilitating better patient management.

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 difference between a displaced and nondisplaced fracture?

A displaced fracture involves a break in the bone where the ends are not aligned, while a nondisplaced fracture means the bone cracks but remains in its normal position.