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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS82.251

S82.251

Billable

Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of right tibia

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.251 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of right tibia.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the right tibia is a severe injury characterized by the breaking of the tibia bone into multiple fragments, with the fragments being misaligned or displaced from their normal anatomical position. This type of fracture often results from high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights. Clinically, patients may present with severe pain, swelling, and deformity of the leg, along with an inability to bear weight. The fracture may also be associated with soft tissue injuries, including damage to surrounding ligaments and muscles. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the fracture pattern and any associated injuries. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, such as internal fixation with plates and screws, to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the fracture. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength to the affected limb, and may include physical therapy and gradual weight-bearing exercises.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires detailed documentation of fracture type and location.
  • Involves understanding of associated soft tissue injuries.
  • May necessitate surgical coding for fixation procedures.
  • Potential for complications requiring additional coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture details.
  • Failure to capture associated injuries.
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures.
  • Misalignment with clinical findings in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any additional procedures performed during surgery.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional status and rehabilitation progress.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-fracture repair.

Billing Considerations

Document the patient's functional limitations and progress to support coding for therapy services.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.251 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, including the need for specificity in coding the type and location of the fracture
  • Ensure compliance with guidelines regarding the use of additional codes for associated injuries

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.251 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27814CPT Code

Open treatment of tibial shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is performed to stabilize the fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, fixation method, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the surgical approach and any implants used.

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 details about the type, location, and laterality of injuries. This specificity improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track outcomes and complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including details about the type, location, and laterality of injuries. This specificity improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track outcomes and complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including details about the type, location, and laterality of injuries. This specificity improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track outcomes and complications.

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 difference between a comminuted fracture and a simple fracture?

A comminuted fracture involves the bone being broken into multiple pieces, while a simple fracture is a clean break with two fragments. Comminuted fractures typically require more complex treatment and have a higher risk of complications.