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 CodesS52.10

S52.10

Billable

Unspecified fracture of upper end of radius

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

Code Description

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

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified fracture of the upper end of the radius typically occurs near the elbow joint, which can result from trauma such as falls or direct blows. This type of fracture may involve the radial head or neck and can lead to complications such as limited range of motion, pain, and instability in the elbow. The upper end of the radius plays a crucial role in forearm rotation and elbow stability. Diagnosis is often confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays or MRI, to assess the fracture's location and severity. Treatment options vary based on the fracture type and may include conservative management with immobilization or surgical intervention for more complex fractures. Surgical options may involve fixation procedures such as internal fixation with plates and screws or external fixation, depending on the fracture's characteristics and associated injuries. Complications such as compartment syndrome may arise, necessitating prompt recognition and intervention to prevent long-term functional impairment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., ligamentous injuries)
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture characteristics
  • Variability in treatment approaches (surgical vs. conservative)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Lack of clarity on treatment provided
  • Inconsistent coding of follow-up visits

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation specifies the fracture type, treatment plan, and any complications.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute elbow pain following trauma, requiring immediate evaluation and management.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.10 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture's specifics
  • Include details on the mechanism of injury, treatment provided, and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.10 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Open treatment of radial head fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for a fracture of the upper end of the radius.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must ensure accurate coding based on the specific fracture type.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving specificity and accuracy in capturing the nature of injuries. S52.10 serves as a catch-all for unspecified fractures, but coders are encouraged to seek more specific codes when available.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving specificity and accuracy in capturing the nature of injuries. S52.10 serves as a catch-all for unspecified fractures, but coders are encouraged to seek more specific codes when available.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving specificity and accuracy in capturing the nature of injuries. S52.10 serves as a catch-all for unspecified fractures, but coders are encouraged to seek more specific codes when available.

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 fracture type?

Specifying the fracture type is crucial for accurate coding, treatment planning, and reimbursement. It helps in understanding the injury's severity and potential complications.