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 CodesS52.119

S52.119

Billable

Torus fracture of upper end of unspecified radius

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.119 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of torus fracture of upper end of unspecified radius.

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 causes it to bulge or buckle rather than break completely. This type of fracture typically occurs at the upper end of the radius, near the elbow, and is often the result of a fall onto an outstretched hand. The injury is particularly prevalent in pediatric populations due to the flexibility of their bones. Clinical presentation may include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area, with limited range of motion in the elbow. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the characteristic buckling of the cortex without complete disruption of the bone. Treatment often involves immobilization with a splint or cast, and in some cases, orthopedic intervention may be necessary if there are associated complications such as compartment syndrome or if the fracture is unstable. Understanding the nuances of this fracture type is essential for accurate coding and management, especially in differentiating it from more severe fractures that may require surgical fixation.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Commonly encountered in pediatric patients, making it familiar to coders.
  • Clear diagnostic criteria based on imaging findings.
  • Standard treatment protocols that are well-documented.
  • Minimal variations in documentation requirements across specialties.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury.
  • Failure to specify the laterality of the fracture.
  • Misclassification of fracture type (e.g., confusing torus with complete fractures).
  • Lack of follow-up documentation regarding treatment outcomes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with arm pain after a fall, often with a visible deformity.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential for future growth disturbances.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of fracture stability, treatment plan, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of fractures requiring surgical intervention or complex cases with associated injuries.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of any surgical procedures performed and post-operative care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.119 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S52
  • 119 should be used when a torus fracture of the upper end of the radius is confirmed without further specification
  • It is important to document the mechanism of injury and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.119 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

Pediatric specialists may have specific protocols for casting techniques.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which aids in better tracking of pediatric injuries and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which aids in better tracking of pediatric injuries and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of fractures, including torus fractures, which aids in better tracking of pediatric injuries and treatment outcomes.

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 the other side, commonly seen in children.