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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS82.04

S82.04

Billable

Comminuted fracture of patella

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/26/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.04 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of comminuted fracture of patella.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A comminuted fracture of the patella is characterized by the patella being broken into multiple fragments, which can complicate the healing process and affect knee function. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-impact trauma, such as a fall or a direct blow to the knee. Patients may present with severe pain, swelling, and an inability to extend the knee. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, which reveal the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries to surrounding structures, including ligaments and cartilage. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, particularly if the fragments are displaced, to restore the patella's integrity and function. Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for regaining strength and mobility, and may include physical therapy to address any ligamentous injuries or instability that may accompany the fracture. The prognosis depends on the severity of the fracture, the patient's age, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires detailed documentation of fracture type and location.
  • Potential for associated injuries (ligament tears, cartilage damage).
  • Surgical intervention may complicate coding.
  • Variability in treatment approaches affects coding specificity.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture details.
  • Failure to document associated injuries.
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures.
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of patellar fractures, management of associated ligament injuries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all surgical procedures are documented and linked to the correct diagnosis.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing rehabilitation protocols and patient response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following patellar fracture surgery, addressing range of motion and strength.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and progress towards rehabilitation goals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.04 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details from imaging studies and surgical reports to support coding decisions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.04 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27400CPT Code

Arthrotomy, knee joint

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical repair of a comminuted patellar fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the extent of the fracture and any associated procedures performed.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including the type and location, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including the type and location, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 comminuted fracture of the patella?

Comminuted fractures of the patella are primarily caused by high-impact trauma, such as falls or direct blows to the knee, often seen in sports injuries or accidents.