ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.123

S52.123

Billable

Displaced fracture of head of unspecified radius

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.123 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced fracture of head of unspecified radius.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced fracture of the head of the radius is a common injury often resulting from falls or direct trauma to the elbow. This type of fracture occurs at the proximal end of the radius, which is critical for elbow stability and function. The displacement indicates that the fracture fragments have moved from their normal anatomical position, which can lead to complications such as limited range of motion, pain, and potential nerve or vascular injury. Proper diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the fracture's alignment and displacement. Treatment often requires orthopedic intervention, which may include closed reduction and immobilization or surgical fixation, depending on the severity of the displacement and the patient's overall health. Complications can include compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that can arise from swelling within the muscle compartments of the forearm, necessitating immediate medical attention. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength post-injury.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture displacement and alignment
  • Potential for associated injuries to the elbow joint
  • Need for precise documentation of imaging findings
  • Variability in treatment approaches (surgical vs. non-surgical)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of laterality or unspecified nature
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and follow-up care

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture type, displacement, and any surgical procedures performed.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute elbow pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.123 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the diagnosis based on clinical documentation
  • Include details about the fracture's displacement and any associated injuries

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.123 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Open treatment of radial head fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for displaced fractures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the surgical approach and any complications.

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. S52.123 provides a clear distinction for displaced fractures, which is critical for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

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. S52.123 provides a clear distinction for displaced fractures, which is critical for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.123 provides a clear distinction for displaced fractures, which is critical for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

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 displaced and non-displaced fractures?

Displaced fractures involve a separation of the fracture fragments, while non-displaced fractures maintain alignment. Accurate coding depends on identifying the type of fracture correctly.