ICD-10 Coding for Left Clavicle Fracture(S42.0, S42.012A, S42.012S)

Learn about the ICD-10 coding for left clavicle fractures, including documentation requirements and common coding pitfalls.

Also known as:
Fracture of the left collarboneLeft collarbone fracture
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Clavicle Fracture

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescription
S42.012AAnterior displaced fracture of sternal end of left clavicle, initial encounter for closed fracture
S42.022ADisplaced fracture of shaft of left clavicle, initial encounter for closed fracture

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information

Essential facts and insights aboutLeft Clavicle Fracture

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions

Shoulder dislocationS43.0

Use when neurovascular compromise is present and no fracture is confirmed.

Scapular fractureS42.81

Use when fracture involves the scapula, not the clavicle.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common issues when documenting Left Clavicle Fracture.

Omitting laterality in documentation

Impact

Clinical: Can lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation

Always include 'left' or 'right' in the documentation., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Incomplete 7th character usage

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect 7th character can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data for patient care and research.

Mitigation

Ensure to use the correct 7th character to indicate the encounter type.

Incomplete documentation of fracture details

Impact

Audits may flag records with insufficient fracture details.

Mitigation

Ensure all documentation includes specific fracture details such as location, displacement, and encounter type.

Frequently Asked Questions