Unspecified fracture of shaft of tibia
ICD-10 S82.20 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified fracture of shaft of tibia.
An unspecified fracture of the shaft of the tibia refers to a break in the long bone of the lower leg, specifically the tibia, which is the larger and stronger of the two bones in the leg. This type of fracture can occur due to various mechanisms, including trauma from falls, sports injuries, or accidents. The tibia is crucial for weight-bearing and mobility, and fractures can significantly impact a patient's ability to walk or engage in physical activities. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment may vary based on the fracture's severity and location, ranging from conservative management with immobilization to surgical intervention for more complex fractures. Rehabilitation is often necessary to restore function and strength to the leg post-injury. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that further details about the fracture type, location, or associated complications are not provided, which can complicate treatment planning and coding accuracy.
Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential for accurate coding.
Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or vehicular accidents.
Ensure that all associated injuries (e.g., ligament tears) are documented to avoid undercoding.
Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations and rehabilitation progress.
Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-fracture for mobility restoration.
Documenting the impact of the fracture on daily activities and rehabilitation goals.
Used when surgical intervention is required for tibial fractures.
Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.
Orthopedic surgeons must provide detailed documentation of the fracture type and treatment.
Use S82.20 when a patient presents with an unspecified fracture of the shaft of the tibia, and there is insufficient detail to assign a more specific code.
