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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.002

S52.002

Billable

Unspecified fracture of upper end of left ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.002 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified fracture of upper end of left ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified fracture of the upper end of the left ulna refers to a break in the bone located at the proximal end of the ulna, which is one of the two long bones in the forearm. This type of fracture can occur due to various mechanisms, including falls, direct trauma, or sports injuries. The ulna plays a crucial role in the stability and function of the elbow joint, and fractures in this area can lead to complications such as limited range of motion, pain, and potential nerve damage. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, to confirm the fracture and assess its severity. Treatment may vary based on the fracture's characteristics and may include conservative management with immobilization or surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone. Complications such as compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, can arise if the fracture is not managed appropriately. Therefore, timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure optimal recovery and function of the affected limb.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations
  • Potential for associated soft tissue injuries
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture characteristics
  • Differentiation from other similar codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture details
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the fracture, treatment plan, and follow-up care are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or direct trauma to the elbow.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the mechanism of injury and any surgical interventions performed.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment and imaging results must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute elbow pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Emergency physicians should ensure that all relevant imaging and treatment decisions are clearly documented.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.002 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the fracture is documented as unspecified
  • Include any relevant details about the mechanism of injury and associated conditions
  • Ensure compliance with coding conventions for fractures, including the use of seventh characters if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.002 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 fracture of the humerus is also present.

Documentation Requirements

Document the nature of the fracture and treatment provided.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that all relevant details of the procedure are captured.

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 ability to capture the complexity of injuries. However, the unspecified nature of S52.002 may lead to challenges in justifying treatment and ensuring appropriate reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the ability to capture the complexity of injuries. However, the unspecified nature of S52.002 may lead to challenges in justifying treatment and ensuring appropriate reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 the significance of specifying the side of the body?

Specifying the side of the body is crucial for accurate coding and treatment planning, as it affects the management and rehabilitation of the injury.