Wiki Comminuted? Spiral? Or Lower end?

[solocoder]

Can someone clarify something for me in the code selection process for fractures? Provider documents: comminuted spiral fracture of the lower metadiaphysis of the fibula. I could code it as comminuted, or spiral, or lower end. Does one of those characteristics or location take precedence over the others? Or do I use 3 different codes to cover everything in his description?

 

[Orthocoderpgu]

My two cents

Comminuted is the hardest to treat, especially if it's intra-articular. So I would go with that one.

As long as you choose a code that supports the procedure being billed, I would not go too crazy.

 

[solocoder]

Thank you!

 

[ambilypk400]

THANKS