ICD 10 CM S62.662B | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S62.662B describes a specific type of injury, namely a nondisplaced fracture of the distal phalanx of the right middle finger, which occurs when the terminal bone of the middle finger, also known as the fingertip, is broken due to blunt or crushing force, sports activities, or other trauma, without any misalignment of the fracture fragments, and this code is used to indicate the initial encounter for an open fracture where the broken bones penetrate the skin.

Official Description Of S62.662B

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S62.662B as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis described by the ICD 10 CM S62.662B code is a non-displaced fracture of the distal phalanx of the right middle finger. This type of fracture can cause intense pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty in moving the finger. It can also lead to the deformity of the affected digit.

To accurately diagnose this condition, medical providers rely on the patient’s history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as a plain X-ray taken from multiple views. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, appropriate treatment options can be recommended to the patient.

In most cases, stable and closed fractures do not require surgery, and the patient can be treated with alternative measures such as closed reduction with buddy taping to an adjacent finger, immobilization in a splint or cast, application of ice packs, and pain management with analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.

However, unstable fractures require fixation, and this may involve the use of wires or pins, depending on the severity of the injury. In the case of an open fracture where the skin has been penetrated, surgery may be necessary to clean the wound and stitch it closed.

It is important for medical coders to understand the basics of this diagnosis code and its associated injuries because it is a common condition treated in orthopedic practices. In most cases, patients can expect to fully recover within a few weeks with the proper treatment plan. However, it is important for medical providers to follow up with their patients to monitor their progress and prevent complications such as infection, malunion, or nonunion.

Medical coders play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by translating the patient’s diagnosis and treatment into medical codes for billing purposes. As such, it is essential to accurately document the diagnosis and treatment plan in the patient’s medical records, ensuring that the correct ICD 10 CM code is assigned to the case.

In conclusion, the diagnosis of a non-displaced fracture of the distal phalanx of the right middle finger, represented by the ICD 10 CM S62.662B code, is a common injury that can result in significant pain and functional impairment. The appropriate course of treatment depends on the severity of the injury, and medical providers must thoroughly evaluate the patient to determine the best approach. Medical coders must accurately document the diagnosis and treatment plan for billing purposes while maintaining compliance with applicable medical coding guidelines.