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S42.209A
ICD-10-CM
Proximal Humerus Fracture

Find information on proximal humerus fracture diagnosis, including ICD-10 codes (S42.2), clinical documentation improvement tips, healthcare provider resources, and medical coding guidelines. Learn about Neer classification, AO classification, and anatomical neck, surgical neck, greater and lesser tuberosity fractures. Explore treatment options, rehabilitation protocols, and post-operative care for proximal humeral fractures.

Also known as

Upper Arm Fracture
Shoulder Fracture

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Break in the upper arm bone near the shoulder.
  • Clinical Signs : Shoulder pain, swelling, bruising, limited arm movement.
  • Common Settings : Falls, sports injuries, trauma.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC S42.209A Coding
S42.2-

Fracture of surgical neck of humerus

Fracture at the proximal end of humerus, below the anatomical neck.

S42.3-

Fracture of greater tuberosity of humerus

Fracture of bony prominence on the upper outer part of humerus.

S42.4-

Fracture of lesser tuberosity of humerus

Fracture of bony prominence on the upper front part of humerus.

S42.0-

Fracture of upper end of humerus, unspecified

Unspecified fracture of the proximal humerus without further details.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Is the fracture closed?

  • Yes

    Displaced?

  • No

    Displaced?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Proximal Humerus Fracture
Humeral Shaft Fracture
Shoulder Dislocation

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Proximal humerus fracture: Document fracture type (Neer, AO)
  • Laterality (left or right) and specific humerus location
  • Mechanism of injury (fall, trauma) details required
  • Neurovascular assessment and any associated injuries
  • Radiographic findings confirming diagnosis and displacement

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Laterality Documentation

    Missing or unclear documentation of right or left humerus affects code selection (e.g., S42.201A vs S42.202A), impacting reimbursement and data accuracy.

  • Fracture Type Specificity

    Insufficient documentation of fracture type (e.g., displaced, comminuted) leads to generic coding (S42.2), hindering accurate severity reflection and quality metrics.

  • Associated Injury Coding

    Failure to capture associated injuries (e.g., rotator cuff tear, nerve damage) with distinct codes undercodes case complexity, impacting MS-DRG assignment and resource allocation.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Accurate fracture classification using ICD-10/CPT for optimal reimbursement.
  • Detailed documentation of displacement, angulation for proper CDI, risk adjustment.
  • Thorough neurovascular exam documented for compliance and improved patient safety.
  • Image quality crucial for diagnosis. Document justification for repeat imaging if needed.
  • Timely orthopedic consult documented. Include clinical findings and treatment plan.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Confirm mechanism of injury documented (fall, trauma)
  • Verify physical exam: pain, swelling, limited ROM
  • Check imaging: X-ray, CT for fracture classification (Neer)
  • Assess neurovascular status: radial pulse, sensation

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Proximal humerus fracture reimbursement hinges on accurate coding (ICD-10 S42) and appropriate modifier use for optimal payment.
  • Quality metrics like time to surgery, pain management, and functional outcomes impact hospital value-based purchasing programs.
  • Coding errors for proximal humerus fracture (S42) can lead to claim denials, impacting revenue cycle and hospital finances.
  • Accurate documentation of fracture type, displacement, and treatment influences proximal humerus fracture reimbursement and quality reporting.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes for . Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code fracture type (displaced, nondisplaced)
  • Specify laterality (right, left)
  • Document mechanism of injury
  • Include open vs closed fracture
  • Confirm diagnosis with imaging

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with right proximal humerus fracture.  Onset of symptoms occurred on [Date of onset] following a [Mechanism of injury - e.g., fall onto outstretched hand, direct blow].  Patient reports [Character of pain - e.g., sharp, throbbing] pain in the right shoulder and upper arm, exacerbated by movement.  Associated symptoms include [List associated symptoms - e.g., swelling, bruising, limited range of motion, crepitus].  Physical examination reveals [Objective findings - e.g., tenderness to palpation over the proximal humerus, ecchymosis, deformity, decreased active and passive range of motion of the right shoulder].  Neurovascular status of the right upper extremity is intact, with palpable radial pulse and normal sensation.  Radiographic imaging of the right shoulder, including [Specify views - e.g., AP, lateral, and Y views], confirms a proximal humerus fracture.  The fracture is classified as a [Neer classification] with [Describe fracture displacement and involvement of greater and lesser tuberosities, articular surface].  Differential diagnosis includes shoulder dislocation, rotator cuff tear, and contusion.  Treatment plan includes [Specify treatment plan - e.g., closed reduction, immobilization with a sling and swathe, pain management with analgesics, referral to orthopedics for surgical evaluation if indicated].  Patient education provided on pain management, activity modification, and follow-up care.  Follow-up appointment scheduled in [Duration] to assess healing progress and adjust treatment plan as needed.  ICD-10 code S42.2 assigned for closed fracture of upper end of humerus.  CPT codes for evaluation and management, radiographic imaging, and procedures will be documented separately based on services rendered.
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