ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS82.043

S82.043

Billable

Displaced comminuted fracture of unspecified patella

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.043 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced comminuted fracture of unspecified patella.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced comminuted fracture of the patella is characterized by the patella being broken into multiple pieces, with fragments that have shifted from their original position. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-impact trauma, such as a fall or a direct blow to the knee. Patients may present with severe pain, swelling, and an inability to extend the knee fully. The diagnosis is often confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, which reveal the extent of the fracture and any displacement of bone fragments. Treatment usually involves surgical intervention to realign the fragments and stabilize the patella, often through the use of plates, screws, or tension bands. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength to the knee joint post-surgery. Complications can include nonunion, malunion, or post-traumatic arthritis, necessitating careful monitoring and follow-up care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture patterns and displacement
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Potential for surgical versus non-surgical treatment options
  • Differentiation from other knee injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical interventions and post-operative care are documented to support the coding.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional status and rehabilitation progress.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-fracture repair.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the patient's recovery trajectory and any complications is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.043 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the fracture is documented as displaced and comminuted
  • Include any relevant details about the mechanism of injury and associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.043 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 to repair a displaced comminuted fracture of the patella.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, materials used, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and the surgical approach.

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 enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including details about displacement and comminution, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 comminuted fracture and a simple fracture?

A comminuted fracture involves the bone being broken into multiple pieces, while a simple fracture is a clean break with two fragments.