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 CodesS42.11

S42.11

Billable

Fracture of body of scapula

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/24/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of body of scapula.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A fracture of the body of the scapula is a relatively uncommon injury that typically results from high-energy trauma, such as a fall from a height or a motor vehicle accident. The scapula, or shoulder blade, plays a crucial role in shoulder stability and function, and fractures in this area can significantly impact mobility and strength. Patients may present with shoulder pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, which can reveal the fracture's location and severity. Treatment often involves conservative management, including rest, ice, and physical therapy, but may require surgical intervention in cases of displaced fractures or associated injuries, such as rotator cuff tears or humeral fractures. Surgical options may include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or arthroscopic techniques, depending on the fracture's complexity and the patient's overall health. Rehabilitation is essential for restoring function and strength post-injury, and the prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and associated injuries
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture location and displacement
  • Potential for concurrent rotator cuff injuries
  • Variations in treatment approaches (surgical vs. conservative)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture details
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and post-operative follow-up documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or trauma requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any associated procedures performed during surgery.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing rehabilitation exercises and patient response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients recovering from scapular fractures requiring physical therapy for strength and mobility.

Billing Considerations

Document specific goals and outcomes related to shoulder function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.11 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S42
  • 11 should be used when the fracture is confirmed by imaging
  • It is essential to document the mechanism of injury, fracture type, and any associated injuries

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.11 When
  • Exclusion criteria include fractures that are not confirmed or are part of a more complex injury pattern

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff

Clinical Scenario

Used when a rotator cuff tear is identified during surgery for scapular fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document any findings related to the rotator cuff during scapular surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of scapular fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes. This specificity aids in research and quality improvement initiatives.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of scapular fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes. This specificity aids in research and quality improvement initiatives.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and compliance with payer requirements.

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 confirm a scapular fracture?

X-rays are typically the first step in diagnosing a scapular fracture, but CT scans may be necessary for complex cases to assess the fracture's extent and any associated injuries.