ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.011

S52.011

Billable

Torus fracture of upper end of right ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.011 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of torus fracture of upper end of right ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a common type of injury in children, characterized by a compression of the bone that results in a bulging or buckling of the cortex without a complete fracture. In the case of a torus fracture of the upper end of the right ulna, the injury typically occurs due to a fall or direct impact, where the ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, sustains a localized deformation. This type of fracture is often seen in pediatric patients due to the pliability of their bones. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area, but they usually retain a good range of motion. Diagnosis is primarily through physical examination and confirmed via X-ray imaging, which will show the characteristic buckling of the bone. Treatment generally involves immobilization with a splint or cast, and in most cases, surgical intervention is not required. However, careful monitoring is essential to ensure proper healing and to prevent complications such as malunion or compartment syndrome, which can occur if swelling is not adequately managed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Commonly encountered in pediatric populations
  • Clear diagnostic criteria based on imaging
  • Standard treatment protocols with minimal variations
  • Low likelihood of complications requiring complex coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Misidentification of fracture type (e.g., complete vs. torus)
  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of injury, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with arm pain after a fall, often with swelling and tenderness.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential for future growth-related issues.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes if applicable, imaging studies, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of fractures in children, including casting and monitoring for complications.

Billing Considerations

Awareness of potential complications such as compartment syndrome, especially in cases of significant swelling.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.011 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of laterality and type of fracture
  • Include any relevant external cause codes if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.011 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Application of a cast

Clinical Scenario

Used when a torus fracture is treated conservatively with immobilization.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of the fracture type, location, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure proper follow-up care is documented.

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 torus fractures, which helps in better tracking and management of pediatric injuries.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which helps in better tracking and management of pediatric injuries.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which helps in better tracking and management of pediatric injuries.

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 torus fracture?

A torus fracture is a type of bone fracture that occurs when one side of the bone buckles without breaking all the way through. It is most common in children due to the flexibility of their bones.