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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS82.309

S82.309

Billable

Unspecified fracture of lower end of unspecified tibia

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S82.309 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified fracture of lower end of unspecified tibia.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S82.309 code refers to an unspecified fracture at the lower end of the tibia, which is a common injury often resulting from trauma such as falls, sports injuries, or vehicular accidents. The tibia, or shinbone, is crucial for weight-bearing and mobility, and fractures in this area can significantly impact a patient's ability to walk and perform daily activities. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bone fragments. Rehabilitation is often required to restore function and strength. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific type of fracture (e.g., transverse, oblique, or comminuted) is not documented, which can complicate treatment planning and coding accuracy.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of specificity in fracture type can lead to coding inaccuracies.
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on fracture severity.
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., ligament tears) complicating the diagnosis.
  • Documentation may not clearly indicate the mechanism of injury.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of fracture type and location.
  • Inconsistent terminology used in clinical notes.
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications.
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all associated injuries (e.g., ligament tears) are documented to support comprehensive coding.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations and rehabilitation progress.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-fracture for mobility restoration.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of the fracture on daily activities and rehabilitation goals is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S82.309 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code reflects the most accurate clinical picture
  • Include documentation of the mechanism of injury, fracture type, and any associated injuries

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S82.309 When
  • Exclude codes for specific fracture types if they are documented

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27506CPT Code

Open treatment of tibial fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for fracture stabilization.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the fracture type and any associated injuries.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving the specificity of diagnoses and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes. S82.309 reflects the need for careful documentation to ensure appropriate care and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving the specificity of diagnoses and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes. S82.309 reflects the need for careful documentation to ensure appropriate care and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 should I document to support the use of S82.309?

Document the mechanism of injury, specific symptoms, imaging results, and any associated injuries. Ensure that the clinical notes clearly indicate the fracture's impact on the patient's function.