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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.01

S52.01

Billable

Torus fracture of upper end of ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of torus fracture of upper end of ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a common type of fracture that occurs in children, particularly at the upper end of the ulna. This injury typically results from a fall onto an outstretched hand, leading to a compression of the bone rather than a complete break. The fracture is characterized by a bulging or buckling of the cortex of the ulna, which is often stable and does not displace. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness around the elbow region. The diagnosis is usually confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the characteristic appearance of the torus fracture. Treatment often involves immobilization with a splint or cast, and in some cases, orthopedic fixation may be necessary if there is concern for instability or associated injuries. Complications such as compartment syndrome, although rare, can occur if there is significant swelling or bleeding within the forearm compartments, necessitating careful monitoring and potential surgical intervention. Overall, the prognosis for torus fractures is excellent, with most patients recovering fully without long-term complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Commonly seen in pediatric populations, making it familiar to coders.
  • Clear diagnostic criteria based on imaging findings.
  • Standard treatment protocols that are well-established.
  • Low likelihood of complications compared to more complex fractures.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury.
  • Failure to specify the type of fracture (e.g., torus vs. complete).
  • Misclassification of the fracture as a more severe type.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation to confirm healing.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of injury, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with arm pain after a fall, often with minimal swelling.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential for future growth disturbances.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of fracture stability, treatment plan, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of pediatric fractures, including surgical fixation if necessary.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of any surgical interventions or complications.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.01 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type and location
  • Include any relevant external cause codes if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.01 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Application of a cast

Clinical Scenario

Used for immobilization of a torus fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture and the reason for casting.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure proper follow-up care is documented.

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 data collection and reimbursement processes for torus fractures.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for torus fractures.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for torus fractures.

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 torus fracture?

A torus fracture is a type of bone fracture that occurs when one side of the bone buckles without breaking completely, commonly seen in children.