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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.291

S52.291

Billable

Other fracture of shaft of right ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.291 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other fracture of shaft of right ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S52.291 code refers to fractures of the shaft of the right ulna that do not fall into more specific categories. These fractures can occur due to various mechanisms, including falls, direct blows, or sports injuries. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in the stability and function of the elbow joint. Fractures in this area can lead to complications such as malunion, nonunion, or compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that arises when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, potentially leading to muscle and nerve damage. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, such as intramedullary nailing or plate fixation, to stabilize the fracture and promote healing. Proper assessment and documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries are essential for accurate coding and optimal patient management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., radius fractures)
  • Need for detailed documentation of treatment procedures
  • Differentiation from other similar codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misuse of codes for similar fractures
  • Lack of clarity in treatment procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of fracture classification and treatment methods.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute forearm pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.291 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the fracture is documented as acute or chronic, and specify the laterality
  • Include any associated conditions such as compartment syndrome if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.291 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25607CPT Code

Open treatment of ulnar shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for fracture stabilization.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and fixation method.

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 patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better 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 S52.291 and S52.20?

S52.291 specifies a fracture of the shaft of the right ulna, while S52.20 is used for unspecified fractures of the ulna, which may lack the necessary detail for accurate coding.