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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS82.156

S82.156

Billable

Nondisplaced fracture of unspecified tibial tuberosity

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.156 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced fracture of unspecified tibial tuberosity.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced fracture of the tibial tuberosity is a common injury, particularly among adolescents and young adults involved in sports. The tibial tuberosity is the bony prominence on the anterior aspect of the tibia where the patellar tendon attaches. This type of fracture typically occurs due to a sudden force or trauma, such as a fall or a direct blow to the knee. Unlike displaced fractures, the bone fragments remain in alignment, which can lead to less severe symptoms and a potentially quicker recovery. Patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the tibial tuberosity, along with difficulty in knee extension. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through X-rays, which may show the fracture line. Treatment often involves conservative management, including rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy to restore function. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if the fracture does not heal properly or if there are associated injuries to the knee ligaments.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms among patients
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and location
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., ligament tears)
  • Differentiation from other knee injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the type of fracture
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress
  • Misclassification of fracture type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or direct trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of any associated ligament injuries or complications.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing rehabilitation exercises, patient response, and functional outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following a tibial tuberosity fracture.

Billing Considerations

Document the patient's functional limitations and progress towards recovery.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.156 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, ensuring specificity in the location and type of fracture
  • Include any relevant external cause codes if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.156 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27500CPT Code

Open treatment of tibial tuberosity fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for a nondisplaced fracture that fails conservative treatment.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and postoperative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 typical recovery time for a nondisplaced fracture of the tibial tuberosity?

Recovery time can vary, but most patients can expect to return to normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks with appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.