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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.244

S52.244

Billable

Nondisplaced spiral fracture of shaft of ulna, right arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.244 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced spiral fracture of shaft of ulna, right arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced spiral fracture of the shaft of the ulna is characterized by a helical fracture line that does not result in separation of the bone fragments. This type of fracture often occurs due to a twisting injury or fall, where the arm is subjected to rotational forces. 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. Although the fracture is nondisplaced, it can still cause significant pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Patients may present with tenderness along the ulna, and diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, is essential for confirming the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a splint or cast, and in some cases, physical therapy may be necessary to restore function. Complications such as compartment syndrome, although rare, can occur if swelling is not managed appropriately, leading to increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the forearm. Orthopedic fixation procedures may be indicated if the fracture becomes displaced or if there are associated injuries to the radius or elbow joint.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Understanding the specific anatomical 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 status
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on fracture type, mechanism of injury, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of any surgical interventions or complications.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of injury, including imaging results and initial treatment.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.244 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details about the mechanism of injury and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.244 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, ulna, without manipulation

Clinical Scenario

Used for nondisplaced fractures treated conservatively.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture and treatment provided.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation should include details of the fracture and any follow-up care.

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. S52.244 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning.

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. S52.244 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.244 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning.

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 the bone fragments remain aligned, while a displaced fracture involves separation of the bone fragments, often requiring surgical intervention.