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 CodesS52.219

S52.219

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of unspecified ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.219 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of unspecified ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture that occurs primarily in children due to the pliability of their bones. In the case of the ulna, this fracture typically involves a bending of the bone with a partial break on one side, resembling a green twig that has been bent but not completely broken. The shaft of the ulna is the long, straight portion of the bone that runs parallel to the radius. This type of fracture can occur due to falls, sports injuries, or accidents. Symptoms may include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness along the ulna, as well as limited range of motion in the elbow and wrist. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the characteristic bending and partial fracture. Treatment often involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, orthopedic intervention may be necessary to ensure proper alignment and healing. Complications can include malunion or nonunion of the fracture, which may require surgical fixation procedures to correct.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of fracture type and location
  • Need for precise imaging reports to confirm diagnosis
  • Differentiation from complete fractures and other types of ulna injuries
  • Potential for associated injuries in the elbow region

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to include imaging results in the medical record
  • Misclassification of fracture type (greenstick vs. complete)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation regarding healing progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or trauma in pediatric patients.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of any associated injuries, particularly in the elbow region, and follow-up care.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history of the injury, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with arm pain after a fall or injury, requiring evaluation for possible fractures.

Billing Considerations

Consider the child's age and developmental stage when assessing injury mechanisms and treatment options.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.219 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details from imaging studies and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.219 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, ulna, without manipulation

Clinical Scenario

Used when a greenstick fracture is treated conservatively without surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture, treatment provided, and follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure accurate coding based on treatment approach.

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 greenstick fracture?

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture commonly seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks, resembling a green twig.

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to ensure proper healing.