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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.312

S52.312

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of radius, left arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.312 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of radius, left arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture commonly seen in pediatric patients, characterized by a bending of the bone without complete disruption. In the case of the left radius, this fracture occurs in the shaft of the bone, which is the long, cylindrical part of the radius. The fracture typically results from a fall or direct trauma, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side while remaining intact on the other. This type of fracture is particularly significant in children due to the pliability of their bones. The clinical presentation may include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness along the shaft of the radius, with limited range of motion in the wrist and elbow. Diagnosis is confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the characteristic bending and partial fracture. Treatment often involves immobilization with a cast or splint to allow for proper healing, and in some cases, orthopedic intervention may be necessary if the fracture is unstable or if there is associated injury to the surrounding soft tissues. Understanding the implications of this fracture is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between complete and incomplete fractures
  • Identifying the specific location of the fracture
  • Understanding pediatric versus adult fracture patterns
  • Recognizing associated injuries such as compartment syndrome

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to note associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of fracture healing status
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of pediatric fractures, surgical intervention for unstable fractures, and treatment of associated soft tissue injuries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of any surgical procedures performed, including fixation methods and post-operative care.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of the child's growth and development, along with injury history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of fractures in children, monitoring for complications, and coordinating care with orthopedic specialists.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the child's age and developmental stage when assessing fracture risk and treatment options.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.312 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details on treatment and follow
  • up care to support the coding choice

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.312 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, radius

Clinical Scenario

Used when a greenstick fracture is treated without surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of treatment and any follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should provide detailed notes on the treatment plan.

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 greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 commonly seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side, resembling a green twig.

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if the fracture is unstable.