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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.202

S52.202

Billable

Unspecified fracture of shaft of left ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.202 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified fracture of shaft of left ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified fracture of the shaft of the left ulna refers to a break in the long bone of the forearm, specifically the ulna, which runs parallel to the radius. This type of fracture can occur due to various mechanisms, including falls, direct blows, or twisting injuries. The ulna is crucial for forearm stability and wrist function, and fractures in this area can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion if not properly managed. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the elbow and wrist. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through radiographic imaging, which may reveal the fracture's location and any associated injuries. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, which may include casting or surgical intervention, depending on the fracture's severity and displacement. Complications such as compartment syndrome, which can arise from swelling and increased pressure within the forearm compartments, must be monitored closely. Proper documentation of the fracture type, location, and treatment plan is essential for accurate coding and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture characteristics
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., radius fractures)
  • Differentiation between open and closed fractures

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misclassification of fracture type (open vs. closed)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on fracture type, treatment plan, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of surgical procedures and any complications.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Immediate assessment notes, imaging results, and initial treatment provided.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute trauma to the forearm.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.202 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture's specifics
  • Include details on the mechanism of injury and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.202 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, ulna

Clinical Scenario

Used when a closed fracture of the ulna is treated without surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture and treatment provided.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must detail the fracture's specifics.

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 granularity of data collected. However, the unspecified nature of S52.202 may lead to challenges in capturing the full clinical picture.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the granularity of data collected. However, the unspecified nature of S52.202 may lead to challenges in capturing the full clinical picture.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the granularity of data collected. However, the unspecified nature of S52.202 may lead to challenges in capturing the full clinical picture.

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 difference between S52.202 and S52.201?

S52.202 refers to an unspecified fracture of the shaft of the left ulna, while S52.201 refers to the same type of fracture on the right side. Accurate coding requires specifying the side of the injury.