Understanding Collarbone Fracture diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Find information on Clavicle Fracture clinical documentation, medical coding, and ICD-10 codes for broken collarbone. Learn about healthcare provider options for collar bone fracture care.
Also known as
Fracture of clavicle
Fractures of the collarbone (clavicle).
Injuries to shoulder and upper arm
Includes injuries to the shoulder girdle and upper arm.
Injuries to the head, neck, and torso
Encompasses various injuries, including those to the head, neck, and torso regions.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the fracture closed or open?
Closed
Is displacement specified?
Open
Type of open fracture?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Collarbone break. |
| Shoulder separation. |
| Proximal humerus fracture. |
Missing or incorrect laterality (left, right, unspecified) for collarbone fracture impacts reimbursement and data accuracy. ICD-10-CM coding guidelines require laterality specification.
Coding a general 'fracture' instead of 'displaced', 'comminuted', or 'greenstick' clavicle fracture lacks detail for accurate severity reflection and DRG assignment. CDI can improve specificity.
Overlooking associated injuries like acromioclavicular joint involvement or brachial plexus injury with clavicle fracture can lead to undercoding and missed revenue opportunities. Thorough documentation is crucial.
Q: What are the best evidence-based conservative management strategies for a distal clavicle fracture with minimal displacement in adult patients?
A: Conservative management of minimally displaced distal clavicle fractures often includes immobilization with a sling or figure-of-eight brace for 4-6 weeks. The goal is to minimize movement and allow the fracture to heal. Pain management is crucial and can involve NSAIDs or other analgesics as appropriate. Regular clinical and radiological follow-up is essential to assess healing progress and identify any potential complications like nonunion. Early range-of-motion exercises can be introduced under the guidance of a physical therapist after appropriate healing is observed, typically after several weeks. Explore how personalized rehabilitation protocols can optimize patient outcomes based on fracture characteristics and individual patient needs. Consider implementing patient education strategies regarding activity modification during recovery.
Q: When is surgical fixation indicated for a midshaft clavicle fracture, and what are the preferred surgical techniques for different fracture patterns?
A: Surgical fixation for midshaft clavicle fractures is generally considered for significantly displaced fractures, open fractures, fractures with associated neurovascular compromise, and cases of nonunion or symptomatic malunion. Specific indications can depend on factors such as the degree of shortening, comminution, and patient factors like age and activity level. Plate fixation and intramedullary nailing are common surgical techniques. Plate fixation offers excellent stability and allows for earlier mobilization, while intramedullary nailing is less invasive but may not be suitable for all fracture patterns. The choice of technique depends on the specific fracture morphology, surgeon experience, and available resources. Learn more about the latest advancements in surgical techniques for clavicle fractures and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with a possible clavicle fracture, also known as a broken collarbone or collar bone fracture. Onset of symptoms occurred on [Date of onset] following [Mechanism of injury - e.g., fall onto outstretched arm, direct blow to shoulder]. Patient reports [Character of pain - e.g., sharp, aching, throbbing] pain localized to the [Location - e.g., left clavicle, right medial clavicle] with associated [Symptoms - e.g., swelling, bruising, tenderness to palpation, crepitus, limited range of motion]. Physical examination reveals [Objective findings - e.g., point tenderness over the mid-clavicle, palpable deformity, ecchymosis]. Neurovascular status of the affected extremity is intact, with palpable radial pulse and normal sensation. Differential diagnoses include acromioclavicular joint separation, shoulder dislocation, and rib fracture. Radiographic imaging of the clavicle (X-ray) was ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess fracture displacement. Preliminary impression is a [Type of fracture - e.g., displaced midshaft clavicle fracture, nondisplaced distal clavicle fracture]. Treatment plan includes [Treatment options - e.g., sling immobilization, pain management with analgesics, referral to orthopedics for surgical evaluation if indicated]. Patient education provided regarding proper sling use, activity modification, and follow-up care. ICD-10 code S72. [Specific code - e.g., S72.001A for closed fracture of the right clavicle, shaft, initial encounter for closed fracture]. Follow-up appointment scheduled in [Duration] for reassessment and further management.