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 CodesS42.261

S42.261

Billable

Displaced fracture of lesser tuberosity of right humerus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.261 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced fracture of lesser tuberosity of right humerus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced fracture of the lesser tuberosity of the right humerus typically occurs due to trauma, such as a fall or direct impact to the shoulder. The lesser tuberosity is a small bony prominence on the humerus where the subscapularis muscle attaches, playing a crucial role in shoulder stability and function. Displacement of this fracture can lead to significant pain, limited range of motion, and potential complications such as rotator cuff injuries or shoulder dislocations. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays or MRI, which can reveal the extent of the fracture and any associated soft tissue injuries. Treatment often involves orthopedic surgical repair, which may include fixation techniques to stabilize the fracture and restore normal anatomy. Post-operative rehabilitation is essential for recovery, focusing on restoring strength and mobility to prevent long-term dysfunction. Accurate coding of this condition is vital for appropriate reimbursement and tracking of orthopedic injuries.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of specific anatomical terminology
  • Differentiation from other shoulder fractures
  • Need for precise documentation of displacement
  • Potential for associated injuries complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture displacement
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Incorrect coding of laterality (right vs. left)
  • Lack of clarity in surgical reports

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and post-operative notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of the fracture and any surgical techniques used.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing rehabilitation protocols and patient response to therapy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-operative rehabilitation following surgical repair of shoulder fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and progress towards recovery to support coding for therapy services.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.261 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of laterality and displacement
  • Include any associated conditions or injuries that may affect treatment and recovery

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.261 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Repair of rotator cuff

Clinical Scenario

Used when a rotator cuff repair is performed alongside fracture fixation.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure clear documentation of both the fracture and any associated repairs.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S42.261 provides detailed information about the fracture type and location, which is essential for effective treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S42.261 provides detailed information about the fracture type and location, which is essential for effective treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S42.261 provides detailed information about the fracture type and location, which is essential for effective treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

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 significance of coding the lesser tuberosity fracture?

Coding the lesser tuberosity fracture accurately is crucial as it impacts treatment decisions, rehabilitation protocols, and reimbursement. It also helps in tracking the incidence of shoulder injuries and outcomes in clinical practice.