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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.234

S52.234

Billable

Nondisplaced oblique fracture of shaft of right ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.234 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced oblique fracture of shaft of right ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the right ulna is characterized by a fracture line that runs diagonally across the bone, without any significant displacement of the fracture fragments. This type of fracture typically occurs due to a direct blow or a fall onto an outstretched hand, which is common in sports injuries or accidents. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in the stability and function of the elbow joint. Although the fracture is nondisplaced, it can still cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the elbow and wrist. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the fracture line and the alignment of the bone. Treatment often involves conservative management, including immobilization with a splint or cast, and may require physical therapy to restore function. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if there are complications or if the fracture does not heal properly. Compartment syndrome, a serious condition that can occur with fractures, should be monitored for, especially if there is significant swelling or pain that does not improve with elevation and rest.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Understanding the specific location of the fracture
  • Identifying associated injuries to the radius or elbow
  • Recognizing potential complications such as compartment syndrome

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Misclassification of fracture displacement
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress

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 sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate imaging reports are included to support the diagnosis.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document any signs of compartment syndrome or neurovascular compromise.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.234 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring to document the specific type of fracture, its location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details about the treatment plan and any complications that arise

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.234 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, ulna, with or without manipulation

Clinical Scenario

Used when a nondisplaced fracture is treated without surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture and treatment provided.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure accurate coding based on treatment.

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 accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.234 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.234 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.234 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

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 a nondisplaced and displaced fracture?

A nondisplaced fracture means that the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment, while a displaced fracture involves a break where the bone fragments are misaligned.