icd 10 cm code for compression fracture of the l1 vertebrae due to trauma

by Dr. Amira Bins Sr. 7 min read

Wedge compression fracture of first lumbar vertebra, initial encounter for closed fracture. S32. 010A is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. The 2022 edition of ICD-10-CM S32.

Full Answer

What is ICD-10 code for L1 compression fracture?

ICD-10-CM Code for Wedge compression fracture of first lumbar vertebra, initial encounter for closed fracture S32. 010A.

What is the ICD-10 code for vertebral compression fracture?

000A for Wedge compression fracture of unspecified thoracic vertebra, initial encounter for closed fracture is a medical classification as listed by WHO under the range - Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes .

What is L1 compression fracture?

Compression fractures of the spine usually occur at the bottom part of the thoracic spine (T11 and T12) and the first vertebra of the lumbar spine (L1). Compression fractures of the spine generally occur from too much pressure on the vertebral body.

How do you code a compression fracture?

In ICD-10-CM, codes for compression and pathologic fractures of the spine (not due to trauma) are located in Chapter 13, Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue. Category M48. 5-, Collapsed vertebra, not elsewhere classifiable is used for vertebrae fracture where no cause is listed.

Is a compression fracture traumatic or pathological?

Compression fractures may be considered traumatic or pathologic. Review the medical record to determine whether there was significant trauma to cause the compression fracture. If the documentation is unclear, ask the physician for clarification.

Is a compression fracture the same as a wedge compression fracture?

In a compression fracture, the vertebral body collapses. The most common type of compression fracture is a wedge fracture, in which the front of the vertebral body collapses but the back does not, meaning that the bone assumes a wedge shape.

Where is the L1 and L2 vertebrae?

The L1 vertebra is located in the spinal column of the lumbar (lower back) region inferior to the T12 vertebra and superior to the L2 vertebra. Like the other lumbar vertebrae, L1 has a large, roughly cylindrical region of bone known as the body, or centrum, which makes up most of its mass.

What is L1 and L2 fracture?

If you have a fracture below the L1-L2 (first and second vertebrae in the lumbar spine), you won't have a spinal cord injury, but it's still possible to injure the nerves. Your back also has muscles, ligaments, tendons, and blood vessels. Muscles are strands of tissues that power your movement.

What is a compression fracture of the back?

A compression fracture is a type of broken bone that can cause your vertebrae to collapse, making them shorter. This often happens to the front of the vertebrae but not the back, causing you to stoop forward over time.

Which type of fracture is considered traumatic?

A traumatic fracture occurs when significant or extreme force is applied to a bone. Examples include broken bones caused by impacts from a fall or car accident, and those caused by forceful overextension, such as a twisting injury that may cause an ankle fracture. Traumatic fractures may be nondisplaced or displaced.

What is posttraumatic fracture?

Post-traumatic orthopaedic conditions can include malunions and nonunions – previous fractures that don't heal properly or at all – as well as damage to cartilage, muscles, tendons, and nerves.

How do you code a fractured vertebrae?

M48. 55XA: Collapsed vertebra, not elsewhere classified, thoracolumbar region, initial encounter for fracture (collapse at the junction of the thoracic and lumbar regions)

What is treatment for L1 fracture?

Medical Treatment Most fractures are treated with immobilization in a brace or corset for up to 12 weeks. Bracing helps to reduce pain and prevent deformity.

What happens if you fracture your L1?

This section of the spine contains a portion of the spinal cord. Injuries to the L1 spine can affect hip flexion, cause paraplegia, loss of bowel/bladder control, and/or numbness in the legs.

What is the treatment for compression fractures in the spine?

The majority of fractures heal with pain medication, reduction in activity, medications to stabilize bone density, and a good back brace to minimize motion during the healing process. Most people return to their everyday activities. Some may need further treatment, such as surgery.

Will a compression fracture heal itself?

Most people can get by without it. Compression fractures usually heal on their own in about 3 months. While that happens, your doctor may suggest you try some things at home that can make you feel better, such as pain medicines, rest, physical therapy, or a back brace.