Advanced Search

Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

805.02 Solves the Dens Fracture Mystery

Published on Mon Jul 02, 2012

Question: How should I code a Fracture of the Dens? There was no spinal cord injury or mention of an open fracture. Missouri SubscriberAnswer: Report 805.02 (Closed fracture of second cervical vertebra) for a dens fracture.The dens is a projection of the second cervical vertebra. It constricts slightly where it meets the main vertebral body. There are three types of dens-related fractures:Type I Fracture: This is a rare fracture involving the tip of dens.Type II Fracture: Type II is the most common type and occurs at the base of dens.Type III Fracture: This type extends into the vertebral body.ICD-9 code range 805.xx represents fractures of the vertebral column without mention of spinal injury. A fourth digit of "0" is used for closed fractures. The final digit "2" is specific to the second cervical vertebra.ICD-10: There are more than a dozen ICD-10 code options that cross to 805.02. Some specifically mention dens [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Radiology Coding Alert

View All