Find comprehensive information on Left Clavicle Fracture diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, ICD-10 codes S42.001A - S42.009A, CPT codes for treatment like 23500 and 23505, and relevant healthcare resources. Learn about distal, medial, and proximal clavicle fracture classifications, non-displaced and displaced fractures, postoperative care, and physical therapy. Explore accurate medical coding guidelines and best practices for documenting Left Clavicle Fractures in electronic health records.
Also known as
Fracture of clavicle
Closed fracture of left clavicle, unspecified part.
Fracture of clavicle
Open fracture of left clavicle, unspecified part.
Fracture of sternal end of clavicle
Fracture of the sternal (medial) end of the left clavicle.
Fracture of acromial end of clavicle
Fracture of the acromial (lateral) end of the left clavicle.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the fracture closed or open?
Closed
Displaced fracture?
Open
Type of open fracture?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Left Clavicle Fracture |
| Right Clavicle Fracture |
| Clavicle Fracture NOS |
Coding lacks left/right laterality, impacting reimbursement and data accuracy. CDI should query for laterality documentation. Relevant for ICD-10 S42.
Unspecified fracture type leads to lower specificity coding. CDI should clarify if displaced, open/closed, etc., for proper S42 ICD-10 code selection.
Encounter type (initial, subsequent) is crucial for accurate coding and compliance. Documentation should clearly indicate initial or follow-up visit related to S42 fracture.
Q: What are the most effective conservative management strategies for a minimally displaced left clavicle fracture in a young adult patient, and how do I choose the best option?
A: Minimally displaced left clavicle fractures in young adults often heal well with conservative management. Options include a simple sling, figure-of-8 brace, or even early mobilization depending on patient comfort and fracture stability. Factors influencing the choice of treatment include displacement, comminution seen on radiographs, patient activity level, and risk of nonunion. A systematic review in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma found similar outcomes between sling and figure-of-8 bracing for minimally displaced fractures, suggesting patient preference can guide decision-making. For more active individuals or those with slight displacement, a figure-of-8 brace might offer added stability. However, early mobilization protocols focusing on range of motion and strengthening exercises have also shown promising results in select patient populations. Consider implementing a shared decision-making approach with the patient, considering their lifestyle and the fracture characteristics. Explore how our advanced imaging analysis tools can aid in assessing fracture stability and predicting healing potential.
Q: When is surgical intervention indicated for a left clavicle fracture, and what are the key factors influencing this decision in the context of both acute and chronic (nonunion) fractures?
A: Surgical intervention for a left clavicle fracture is typically reserved for specific indications. In acute fractures, significant displacement (greater than 2cm shortening), severe comminution, open fractures, or associated neurovascular compromise warrant surgical consideration. For chronic nonunions, persistent pain, functional limitation, and radiographic evidence of non-healing are key factors. Factors like patient age, activity level, and occupation also play a role. The Rockwood and Green’s Fractures in Adults textbook provides detailed guidance on surgical approaches and indications. A retrospective study in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found improved functional outcomes with surgical fixation in displaced midshaft clavicle fractures compared to conservative treatment. Learn more about our resources for pre-operative planning and post-surgical rehabilitation protocols.
Patient presents with complaints of left shoulder pain following a fall onto an outstretched hand. On examination, the patient exhibits tenderness to palpation over the left clavicle, with palpable deformity and crepitus noted at the midshaft. Range of motion in the left shoulder is limited due to pain. Left clavicle fracture is suspected. Radiographic imaging of the left clavicle was ordered and confirms a displaced midshaft fracture. Diagnosis: Left clavicle fracture, closed, displaced. Treatment plan includes a sling for immobilization, pain management with NSAIDs, and follow-up with orthopedics for evaluation of potential surgical intervention. Patient education provided on clavicle fracture care, including sling use, activity restrictions, and pain management strategies. ICD-10 code S42.009A, unspecified fracture of clavicle, initial encounter for closed fracture. CPT codes for the evaluation and management visit, radiographic imaging, and application of sling will be documented separately. Patient instructed to return for follow-up in one week to assess healing progress and discuss further management options. Risks and benefits of both non-operative and operative management were discussed, including the possibility of malunion and nonunion. Patient understands the plan of care and agrees to follow-up.