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 CodesS22.010

S22.010

Billable

Wedge compression fracture of first thoracic vertebra

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/23/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S22.010 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of wedge compression fracture of first thoracic vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A wedge compression fracture of the first thoracic vertebra (T1) occurs when the vertebra collapses due to trauma, resulting in a wedge-shaped deformity. This type of fracture is often associated with significant chest trauma, such as from a fall or motor vehicle accident. The first thoracic vertebra is critical as it supports the upper thoracic spine and is closely related to the rib cage and surrounding structures. Patients may present with severe back pain, limited mobility, and neurological symptoms if the spinal cord is compromised. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries. Treatment may include conservative management with pain control and physical therapy or surgical intervention in cases of instability or neurological compromise. Understanding the implications of this fracture is essential, as it can lead to complications such as rib fractures, pneumothorax, hemothorax, or cardiac injuries, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of spinal anatomy and trauma mechanisms
  • Potential for associated injuries complicating coding
  • Differentiation from other thoracic vertebral fractures
  • Documentation must specify the type and location of the fracture

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to document associated injuries (e.g., pneumothorax)
  • Misclassification of fracture type or location
  • Lack of imaging reports to support the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports, surgical notes if applicable, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of acute thoracic spine injuries, post-operative care, and rehabilitation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the fracture's impact on mobility and any neurological assessments.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Complete trauma assessment, imaging results, and initial treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute trauma presentations, management of chest injuries, and stabilization of patients.

Billing Considerations

Thorough documentation of the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S22.010 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type and associated injuries
  • Include any relevant external cause codes to describe the mechanism of injury

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S22.010 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Percutaneous vertebroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for stabilization of wedge compression fractures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic or neurosurgical documentation must clearly outline the need for intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of wedge compression fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of wedge compression fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource utilization.

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 imaging is required to support the diagnosis of S22.010?

Imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are essential to confirm the diagnosis of a wedge compression fracture and assess for any associated injuries.