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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.025

S52.025

Billable

Nondisplaced fracture of olecranon process without intraarticular extension of left ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.025 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced fracture of olecranon process without intraarticular extension of left ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced fracture of the olecranon process of the ulna is a common injury that typically occurs due to a fall onto an outstretched hand or direct trauma to the elbow. The olecranon is the bony prominence of the ulna at the elbow joint, and fractures in this area can lead to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. In the case of a nondisplaced fracture, the bone fragments remain in their normal anatomical position, which often allows for conservative management without the need for surgical intervention. This type of fracture is characterized by the absence of intraarticular extension, meaning that the fracture does not extend into the elbow joint itself, which is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis. Patients may present with tenderness over the olecranon, swelling, and difficulty in flexing the elbow. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the fracture pattern. Treatment may involve immobilization with a splint or brace, followed by rehabilitation exercises to restore function. Understanding the specifics of this fracture is essential for accurate coding and appropriate management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the fracture location (olecranon process)
  • Differentiation between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Exclusion of intraarticular extension
  • Potential for associated soft tissue injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right)
  • Misclassification of displaced vs. nondisplaced fractures
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes if surgery is performed, imaging reports, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of elbow fractures, postoperative care, and rehabilitation protocols.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture type and treatment plan to support coding.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute presentation of elbow injuries, pain management, and referral to orthopedic specialists.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of mechanism of injury and physical exam findings is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.025 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the diagnosis based on clinical documentation
  • Include details about laterality and fracture specifics

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.025 When
  • Exclude codes for displaced fractures or those with intraarticular involvement

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture of olecranon process

Clinical Scenario

Used when a nondisplaced fracture is treated conservatively.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of treatment and any follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that the treatment plan aligns with the diagnosis.

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 distinguish between displaced and nondisplaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding fractures, including the ability to distinguish between displaced and nondisplaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning and reimbursement.

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 the difference between a displaced and nondisplaced fracture?

A displaced fracture involves a break in the bone where the ends are not aligned, while a nondisplaced fracture means the bone cracks but maintains its normal position.