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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.319

S42.319

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of humerus, unspecified arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.319 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of humerus, unspecified arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture of the shaft of the humerus is a type of incomplete fracture commonly seen in pediatric patients, where the bone bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely through. This type of fracture is characterized by a bending of the bone, resembling a green twig that has been bent but not fully broken. In adults, greenstick fractures are rare due to the increased rigidity of mature bone. The humerus is the long bone in the upper arm, and fractures in this area can result from falls, direct trauma, or sports injuries. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected arm. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies such as X-rays, which reveal the characteristic incomplete fracture. Treatment often involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to ensure proper alignment and healing. Rehabilitation may be required to restore function and strength to the arm post-injury.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between complete and incomplete fractures
  • Identifying the specific location of the fracture
  • Understanding the age-related differences in fracture types
  • Documenting associated injuries or complications

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to specify the arm involved
  • Misclassification of fracture type (greenstick vs. complete)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, imaging results, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of any surgical interventions or follow-up care.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and development considerations, as well as family history of bone health.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Injuries from play or sports, particularly in active children.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the child's age and developmental stage is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.319 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, S42
  • 319 should be used when the specific arm is not documented
  • If the left or right arm is specified, the appropriate code should be selected
  • Additionally, documentation must support the diagnosis and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.319 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for associated injuries.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and imaging results.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the necessity of surgery.

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

reimbursement process.

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 where the bone bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely through, commonly seen in children.

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

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