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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.311

S42.311

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of humerus, right arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.311 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of humerus, right 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 a complete break. This type of fracture occurs when the bone bends and cracks on one side, resembling the way a green twig breaks. In the case of the right arm, the fracture affects the shaft of the humerus, which is the long bone in the upper arm. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the shoulder and elbow. Diagnosis is often confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the characteristic incomplete fracture pattern. Treatment usually involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if the fracture is unstable or if there is significant displacement. Rehabilitation may follow to restore function and strength to the arm. Understanding the nuances of this fracture type 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 soft tissue injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or accidents in pediatric patients.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the fracture type, treatment plan, and any surgical interventions performed.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and development assessments, family history, and injury mechanism details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Injuries from play, sports, or accidents leading to greenstick fractures.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the child's age and developmental stage is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.311 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S42
  • 311 should be used when documenting a greenstick fracture of the shaft of the humerus in the right arm
  • It is important to ensure that the documentation specifies the fracture type and laterality

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.311 When
  • Exclusion criteria include complete fractures or fractures of other locations

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Closed treatment of humeral shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when a greenstick fracture requires closed reduction.

Documentation Requirements

Operative notes detailing the procedure and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and treatment.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 without breaking completely, commonly seen in children.

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if the fracture is unstable.