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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS82.042

S82.042

Billable

Displaced comminuted fracture of left patella

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/26/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.042 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced comminuted fracture of left patella.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced comminuted fracture of the left patella is characterized by the patella being broken into multiple fragments, with the fragments being misaligned or displaced from their normal anatomical position. This type of fracture typically results from high-energy trauma, such as a fall or a direct blow to the knee. Patients may present with significant pain, swelling, and an inability to extend the knee fully. Physical examination often reveals tenderness over the patella, and in some cases, a palpable defect may be noted. Imaging studies, particularly X-rays, are essential for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the extent of the fracture. Treatment options may include conservative management with immobilization or surgical intervention, such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient's overall health. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength to the knee joint post-injury.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of fracture types and classifications.
  • Need for precise documentation of displacement and comminution.
  • Differentiation from similar knee injuries and fractures.
  • Potential for surgical intervention coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture details.
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right).
  • Misclassification of fracture type.
  • Inconsistent coding of associated procedures.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or vehicular accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of fracture type and treatment plan.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional status and rehabilitation progress.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-operative rehabilitation following patellar fracture repair.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of the injury on daily activities and rehabilitation goals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.042 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including specificity for laterality and type
  • Ensure documentation supports the diagnosis and any associated procedures

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.042 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27400CPT Code

Open treatment of patellar fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is performed for a displaced patellar fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the fracture type and treatment rationale.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including details about displacement and comminution, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including details about displacement and comminution, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including details about displacement and comminution, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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 non-displaced fracture?

A displaced fracture means the bone fragments are misaligned, while a non-displaced fracture means the bone remains in its normal position despite the fracture.