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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS22.23

S22.23

Billable

Sternal manubrial dissociation

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S22.23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sternal manubrial dissociation.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sternal manubrial dissociation is a rare but serious condition that occurs when the manubrium, the upper part of the sternum, separates from the body of the sternum. This injury is often the result of significant blunt chest trauma, such as that sustained in motor vehicle accidents or falls from heights. The dissociation can lead to instability of the thoracic cage, which may compromise respiratory function and increase the risk of associated injuries, including rib fractures, pneumothorax, and hemothorax. Patients may present with severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, and signs of shock. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the injury and rule out other thoracic injuries. Management may require surgical intervention to stabilize the sternum and address any associated injuries, particularly if there is damage to the heart or major vessels. The prognosis depends on the severity of the injury and the presence of any complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of thoracic anatomy and trauma mechanisms
  • Potential for associated injuries complicating coding
  • Need for precise documentation of trauma severity
  • Differentiation from other sternal injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of trauma mechanism
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misclassification of the type of sternal injury
  • Lack of clarity on surgical interventions performed

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Trauma Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging results, and post-operative care plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of blunt chest trauma with sternal injuries, surgical stabilization of the sternum.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all associated injuries are documented to support coding for S22.23.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment notes, imaging interpretations, and initial management plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of trauma patients presenting with chest pain and respiratory distress.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of the mechanism of injury and vital signs is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S22.23 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S22
  • 23 should be used when there is clear documentation of sternal manubrial dissociation
  • It is important to include any associated injuries in the coding process

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S22.23 When
  • Exclusion criteria include other types of sternal fractures that do not involve dissociation

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT 21740CPT Code

Open reduction and internal fixation of sternal fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of sternal manubrial dissociation requiring surgical stabilization.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Trauma surgeons should ensure that the rationale for surgery is clearly documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic injuries, including sternal manubrial dissociation, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and facilitates better tracking of outcomes and resource utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic injuries, including sternal manubrial dissociation, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and facilitates better tracking of outcomes and resource utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 sternal manubrial dissociation?

The primary cause is typically high-energy blunt trauma, such as that experienced in motor vehicle accidents or severe falls.

How is sternal manubrial dissociation diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through imaging studies, including chest X-rays and CT scans, which reveal the separation of the manubrium from the body of the sternum.

What are the potential complications of sternal manubrial dissociation?

Complications can include respiratory distress, cardiac injuries, and the risk of pneumothorax or hemothorax due to associated rib fractures.