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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS22.070

S22.070

Billable

Wedge compression fracture of T9-T10 vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S22.070 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of wedge compression fracture of t9-t10 vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A wedge compression fracture of the T9-T10 vertebra occurs when the vertebrae in the thoracic spine sustain a fracture that causes them to collapse or compress into a wedge shape. This type of fracture is often the result of trauma, such as a fall or a motor vehicle accident, and can lead to significant pain, reduced mobility, and potential complications such as spinal cord injury. Patients may present with acute back pain, tenderness over the affected area, and neurological symptoms if the spinal cord is compromised. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI 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 more severe cases. The management of wedge compression fractures is critical, as they can lead to chronic pain and disability if not properly addressed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of vertebral fractures (compression vs. burst)
  • Identifying associated injuries such as rib fractures or pneumothorax
  • Documenting the mechanism of injury accurately
  • Understanding the implications of surgical interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to document associated injuries such as pneumothorax or hemothorax
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of acute thoracic spine injuries, surgical repair of vertebral fractures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of surgical procedures performed in conjunction with fracture repair.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of trauma patients with suspected spinal injuries.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S22.070 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for coding fractures, including specificity regarding the location and type of fracture
  • Ensure to document any associated injuries or complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S22.070 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

Pre-operative imaging, consent forms, and post-operative follow-up notes.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the indication for vertebroplasty.

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. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the injury mechanism and associated conditions.

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. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the injury mechanism and associated conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the injury mechanism and associated conditions.

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 primary cause of a wedge compression fracture?

Wedge compression fractures are primarily caused by trauma, such as falls or accidents, and can also occur in patients with osteoporosis due to weakened bone structure.