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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.265

S52.265

Billable

Nondisplaced segmental fracture of shaft of ulna, left arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.265 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced segmental fracture of shaft of ulna, left arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced segmental fracture of the shaft of the ulna refers to a specific type of bone injury where the ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, experiences a fracture that does not result in the bone fragments being misaligned. This type of fracture is characterized by the presence of two or more fracture lines in the same bone segment, which can complicate healing and function. The left arm is specified to indicate the affected side. Such fractures can occur due to trauma, such as falls or direct blows, and may be associated with injuries to surrounding structures, including the radius, ligaments, and muscles. In cases of segmental fractures, careful evaluation is necessary to assess for potential complications such as compartment syndrome, which can arise from swelling and increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the forearm. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures to stabilize the fracture and promote healing, which may include the use of plates, screws, or intramedullary nails. Rehabilitation is crucial to restore function and strength in the affected arm.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Identifying segmental fractures versus simple fractures
  • Understanding associated injuries to the radius or soft tissues
  • Documentation of laterality (left arm) and specific fracture characteristics

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and characteristics
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of laterality
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans or procedures performed

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of fracture type, location, and any associated injuries to facilitate appropriate coding.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of initial assessment, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute trauma to the forearm, requiring immediate evaluation and stabilization.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.265 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, fractures should be coded based on the type, location, and laterality
  • Nondisplaced fractures are classified separately from displaced fractures, and segmental fractures require specific documentation to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.265 When
  • Exclusion criteria include fractures that are not segmental or those involving other bones

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25607CPT Code

Open treatment of ulnar shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for stabilization of the fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure performed and any implants used.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and the surgical approach.

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 displaced and nondisplaced fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and billing.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including the differentiation between displaced and nondisplaced fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and billing.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing.

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 segmental fracture and a simple fracture?

A segmental fracture involves two or more fracture lines in the same bone segment, while a simple fracture has only one fracture line. Segmental fractures can complicate healing and may require more extensive treatment.