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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.012

S52.012

Billable

Torus fracture of upper end of left ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.012 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of torus fracture of upper end of left ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a common type of injury seen in pediatric patients, particularly in the upper end of the ulna. This type of fracture occurs when one side of the bone buckles upon itself without breaking all the way through, typically due to a fall or direct impact. In the case of the upper end of the left ulna, the injury may affect the growth plate, which is crucial for bone development in children. Symptoms often include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness around the elbow joint. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the characteristic buckling of the bone cortex. Treatment usually involves immobilization with a cast or splint to allow for proper healing, as surgical intervention is rarely necessary for torus fractures. However, careful monitoring is essential to ensure that no complications arise, such as malunion or growth disturbances. Understanding the implications of this fracture type is vital for pediatric care, as it can significantly impact a child's mobility and development if not managed appropriately.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Commonly encountered in pediatric populations
  • Clear diagnostic criteria based on imaging
  • Standard treatment protocols with minimal variations
  • Low likelihood of complications requiring complex coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right)
  • Misclassification as a complete fracture
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress

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, particularly in active play.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate laterality and growth plate involvement are documented.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes if applicable, imaging studies, and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of fractures in children, including casting and monitoring for complications.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions or complications that may arise.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.012 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and laterality
  • Include any relevant history of trauma and associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.012 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Application of a cast

Clinical Scenario

Used when a torus fracture is diagnosed and requires immobilization.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of the fracture type, location, and cast application details.

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 under pressure, commonly seen in children due to their softer bones.