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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.312

S42.312

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of humerus, left arm

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/24/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.312 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of humerus, left arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture of the shaft of the humerus is a type of incomplete fracture commonly seen in pediatric patients, characterized by a bending of the bone without complete disruption. This type of fracture occurs when the bone bends and cracks on one side, resembling a green twig that bends but does not break completely. In the case of the left arm, the fracture may result from a fall or direct trauma. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the shoulder and arm. Diagnosis is confirmed through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, which reveal the fracture line and any associated displacement. Treatment often involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bone. Rehabilitation may follow to restore function and strength. Understanding the nuances of greenstick fractures is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between complete and incomplete fractures
  • Identifying the specific location of the fracture
  • Understanding pediatric versus adult fracture coding
  • Potential for associated injuries in the shoulder region

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right)
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging studies, and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of humeral fractures, management of complications, and rehabilitation protocols.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any surgical procedures performed, including fixation methods.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and development assessments, family history, and detailed physical examination findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of pediatric fractures, including non-operative and operative treatment options.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential long-term implications for bone development.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.312 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including the need for specificity in fracture type and location
  • Ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.312 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Closed treatment of humeral shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when a greenstick fracture is treated non-operatively.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of treatment and follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure accurate coding based on the treatment provided.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S42.312 provides clarity in identifying greenstick fractures, which were less distinctly categorized in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S42.312 provides clarity in identifying greenstick fractures, which were less distinctly categorized in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S42.312 provides clarity in identifying greenstick fractures, which were less distinctly categorized in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a greenstick fracture?

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and cracks on one side, commonly seen in children due to the flexibility of their bones.