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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.212

S52.212

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of left ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.212 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of left ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture that occurs primarily in children due to the pliability of their bones. In the case of the left ulna, this fracture involves a bending of the bone where one side is broken while the other side remains intact. This type of fracture is often seen in the shaft of the ulna and can occur due to falls or direct trauma. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in the stability and function of the wrist and elbow. Greenstick fractures can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion if not properly treated. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, orthopedic fixation may be necessary to ensure proper alignment and healing. It is essential for healthcare providers to monitor for potential complications, including compartment syndrome, which can arise from swelling and increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the forearm. Proper documentation of the fracture type, location, and treatment plan is critical for accurate coding and billing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation between complete and incomplete fractures
  • Specificity of the fracture location (shaft of ulna)
  • Potential for associated complications (e.g., compartment syndrome)
  • Variability in treatment approaches (conservative vs. surgical)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document treatment plan and follow-up care
  • Misclassification of fracture type (greenstick vs. complete)
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of any surgical interventions or complications.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough history of injury, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Injuries from play, falls, or sports activities in children.

Billing Considerations

Consider developmental factors and the potential for growth plate involvement.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.212 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, codes for fractures must specify the type, location, and laterality
  • Greenstick fractures are classified under specific codes that denote incomplete fractures
  • Documentation must include the mechanism of injury and any associated complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.212 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Application of a cast

Clinical Scenario

Used for immobilization of the greenstick fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of cast applied and the duration of immobilization.

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 the differentiation between greenstick and complete fractures, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including the differentiation between greenstick and complete fractures, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including the differentiation between greenstick and complete fractures, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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 greenstick fracture?

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture that occurs when a bone bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely through. It is most commonly seen in children due to the flexibility of their bones.