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 CodesS82.169

S82.169

Billable

Torus fracture of upper end of unspecified tibia

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.169 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of torus fracture of upper end of unspecified tibia.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a type of incomplete fracture commonly seen in children due to the pliability of their bones. In the case of a torus fracture of the upper end of the tibia, the fracture occurs at the proximal end of the tibia, which is the larger bone in the lower leg that connects to the knee joint. This type of fracture typically results from a fall or direct impact, causing the bone to bend and bulge outward without breaking completely through. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness around the knee area, but they often retain some range of motion. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the characteristic buckling of the bone cortex. Treatment generally involves immobilization with a cast or splint to allow for proper healing, and follow-up care is essential to monitor recovery and prevent complications. Understanding the nuances of this fracture type is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate management in pediatric orthopedic settings.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation quality across providers
  • Differentiating between torus and complete fractures
  • Need for precise anatomical localization
  • Potential for co-existing injuries in pediatric patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inconsistent documentation of fracture type
  • Failure to specify laterality or location
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Inadequate follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatric Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of injury mechanism, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with knee pain after falls, sports injuries, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential for future complications.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Thorough assessment of injury, including mechanism of injury and initial treatment provided.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting to the ER with acute knee pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Timely imaging and referral to orthopedics for follow-up care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.169 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details on treatment and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.169 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

28485CPT Code

Closed treatment of tibial fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when a torus fracture requires manipulation or casting.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of treatment and any imaging performed.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric orthopedic specialists should ensure proper follow-up care is documented.

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 torus fractures, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes.

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 a torus fracture?

A torus fracture is an incomplete fracture commonly seen in children, characterized by a bulging of the bone cortex without a complete break.

How is a torus fracture treated?

Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, allowing the bone to heal naturally over time.

What imaging is used to diagnose a torus fracture?

X-ray imaging is the primary method used to diagnose a torus fracture, revealing the characteristic buckling of the bone.