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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.33

S52.33

Billable

Oblique fracture of shaft of radius

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.33 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of oblique fracture of shaft of radius.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An oblique fracture of the shaft of the radius is characterized by a fracture line that runs diagonally across the bone, typically resulting from a fall onto an outstretched hand or direct trauma. This type of fracture can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion if not properly managed. The radius is one of the two long bones in the forearm, and its shaft is crucial for wrist and elbow function. Patients may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected arm. In cases where the fracture is displaced, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bone fragments. Compartment syndrome is a potential complication, particularly if there is significant swelling or bleeding within the forearm compartments, which can compromise blood flow and nerve function. Orthopedic fixation procedures, such as internal fixation with plates or screws, may be indicated to stabilize the fracture and promote healing. Proper assessment and imaging, including X-rays, are essential for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture patterns and displacement
  • Potential for associated injuries to the elbow or wrist
  • Need for surgical intervention in some cases
  • Documentation of complications such as compartment syndrome

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures performed
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fracture repair, management of complications like compartment syndrome, and post-operative care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical interventions and complications are documented to support coding.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of trauma patients with suspected fractures and management of acute pain.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires clear documentation of the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.33 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S52
  • 33 should be used when the fracture is confirmed through imaging and documented appropriately
  • It is important to note any complications or associated injuries for accurate coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.33 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of radius fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when a closed reduction is performed for an oblique fracture of the radius.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of reduction and any immobilization techniques used.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that all procedural details are captured.

25605CPT Code

Open treatment of radius fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical fixation is required for an oblique fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report and post-operative care notes are necessary.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that all surgical interventions are documented for accurate coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fracture types, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.33 provides a clear distinction for oblique fractures, which aids in clinical management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fracture types, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.33 provides a clear distinction for oblique fractures, which aids in clinical management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.33 provides a clear distinction for oblique fractures, which aids in clinical management and research.

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 primary cause of an oblique fracture of the radius?

Oblique fractures of the radius are commonly caused by falls onto an outstretched hand or direct trauma to the forearm.

How can I differentiate between an oblique and a transverse fracture?

An oblique fracture has a diagonal fracture line, while a transverse fracture has a horizontal fracture line across the bone.