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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.346

S52.346

Billable

Nondisplaced spiral fracture of shaft of radius, unspecified arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.346 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced spiral fracture of shaft of radius, unspecified arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced spiral fracture of the shaft of the radius is characterized by a fracture line that spirals around the bone without causing displacement of the bone fragments. This type of fracture typically occurs due to a twisting force applied to the arm, often seen in sports injuries or falls. The radius is one of the two long bones in the forearm, and its shaft is the long, straight portion between the proximal and distal ends. While the fracture is nondisplaced, it can still cause significant pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected arm. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the fracture line without any separation of the bone fragments. Treatment may involve immobilization with a splint or cast, and in some cases, physical therapy may be necessary to restore function. Complications can include compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that occurs when swelling or bleeding increases pressure within a closed muscle compartment, potentially leading to muscle and nerve damage. Proper assessment and management are crucial to prevent long-term disability.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Identifying the specific location of the fracture (shaft of radius)
  • Understanding the mechanism of injury (spiral fracture)
  • Documenting associated conditions such as compartment syndrome

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document mechanism of injury
  • Misclassification of fracture as displaced
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

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

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute arm pain after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.346 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, including the need for specificity in documenting the fracture type and location
  • Ensure that the code reflects the current clinical status of the patient and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.346 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of radius fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when a nondisplaced spiral fracture is treated conservatively.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture, treatment provided, and follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure 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 greater specificity in coding fractures, including the ability to differentiate 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 greater specificity in coding fractures, including the ability to differentiate 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 displaced and nondisplaced fracture?

A displaced fracture involves a separation of the bone fragments, while a nondisplaced fracture means the bone fragments remain aligned despite the fracture.