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 CodesS52.18

S52.18

Billable

Other fracture of upper end of radius

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.18 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other fracture of upper end of radius.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S52.18 code refers to fractures at the upper end of the radius that do not fall into the more common categories of fractures, such as those classified as 'head' or 'neck' fractures. These fractures can occur due to various mechanisms, including falls, direct trauma, or sports injuries. The upper end of the radius is crucial for elbow function, as it articulates with the humerus and the ulna, allowing for a wide range of motion. Fractures in this area can lead to complications such as malunion, nonunion, or even compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that can arise from swelling and increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the forearm. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, which may include the use of plates, screws, or intramedullary nails to stabilize the fracture and promote healing. Proper diagnosis and management are essential to restore function and prevent long-term disability.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations within the upper end of the radius.
  • Potential for associated injuries to the elbow joint or ulna.
  • Need for detailed imaging reports to determine fracture specifics.
  • Differentiation from other similar codes related to radius fractures.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics.
  • Failure to document associated injuries.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans.
  • Inconsistent coding of follow-up visits.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the fracture type, location, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or direct trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all imaging studies and surgical notes are included in the documentation.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute elbow pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.18 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the fracture is coded based on the specific location and type
  • Include any relevant external cause codes if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.18 When
  • Exclude codes for fractures that are not classified as 'other' or do not involve the upper end of the radius

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Open treatment of radial head fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for a fracture of the upper end of the radius.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must provide comprehensive surgical notes.

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. S52.18 provides a distinct code for fractures that do not fit into more common categories, enhancing the granularity of clinical data.

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. S52.18 provides a distinct code for fractures that do not fit into more common categories, enhancing the granularity of clinical data.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.18 provides a distinct code for fractures that do not fit into more common categories, enhancing the granularity of clinical data.

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 are the common causes of an upper end radius fracture?

Common causes include falls, sports injuries, and direct trauma to the elbow area. These fractures are often seen in both young athletes and older adults with osteoporosis.